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Cork Top

Cork - the Renewable Wonder Wood with Many Uses

Cork is a wondrous material that provides mankind with numerous benefits. Cork is made from the bark of the evergreen species of oak genus called the Quercus. The wood is native to southwest Europe and northwest Africa. It has also been introduced into warmer areas of the United States, but by far the number one producer of cork oak is Portugal, which accounts for half of the world's cork.

The cork oak tree has a very thick bark (known as "cork"), which can be harvested for the first time from the tree after about twenty five years. The cork pulled from the tree is light, flexible, and compressible. It is also resistant to liquids and gases. Its resistance to materials passing through its cells is a result of its chemical composition, which contains a large amount of suberin. Suberin contains acids which make it elastic and compressible. After its initial harvesting, a cork oak tree can be harvested about once a decade.

Cork's number one use is for wine stoppers. The demand for cork continues to rise as wine makers continue to use natural cork more than alternatives. Natural cork has the advantage of not soaking up the flavor of wines, as non-natural corks can do.

Cork has many other uses beyond its traditional role in capping wine bottles. Due to its fire resistance, cork has been used in rocket technology, as well as to make bricks for homes. Technological innovation has also resulted in the material becoming popular for use in footwear, furniture, and floor tiles.

The waste produced from cork that is heated to extreme temperatures is called black agglomerate. Black agglomerate has many uses as well, such as for vibration, thermal, and acoustic insulators. It is also prized for its appearance and is often used for ornamental and artistic purposes. The grinding of cork produces white agglomerate, which is useful for industrial purposes. White agglomerate is also used in the construction of sporting goods, such as golf clubs, rackets, helmets, and baseballs. Also, cork grains can be combined with rubber to form rubbercork, which is used for electrical and automobile purposes.

As mentioned above, Portugal produces half of the total cork in the world. The country's pleasant Mediterranean climate is ideal for growing cork oak trees. About 720 thousand hectares in Portugal are devoted to the growing of cork oak trees. One hectare equals 10 thousand square meters, so this represents a very large amount of land. A cork oak tree can live up to 200 years and will typically be harvested many times in its lifetime.

Cork is a natural product that is harvested naturally, so no damage is done to the environment. In addition, the material can be re-used and is biodegradable. There is no synthetic version of cork (the production of which would likely be much more damaging to the environment than natural cork harvesting), so it is a valuable material that does no damage in its production or consumption.

So now you know more about cork than you probably ever though you would. It's a product with many uses that can be re-generated naturally over and over. It's truly a wonder wood.

About the Author

For more information about cork or cork flooring, visit WorldFloorsDirect.com, a company specializing in wood flooring that originates from managed sustainable forests.

To Cork or Not To Cork $13.99 In Judgment of Paris , George M. Taber masterfully chronicled the historic 1976 wine tasting when unknown California wines defeated top French ones, marking a major turning point in wine history. Now he explores the most controversial topic in the world of wine: What product should be used to seal a bottle? Should it be cork, plastic, glass, a screwcap, or some other type of closure still to be invented? For nearly four centuries virtually every bottle of wine had a cork in it. But starting in the 1970s, a revolution began to topple the cork monopoly. In recent years, the rebellion has been gathering strength. Belatedly, the cork industry began fighting back, while trying to retain its predominant position. Each year 20 billion closures go onto wine bottles, and, increasingly, they are not corks. The cause of the onslaught against cork is an obscure chemical compound known as TCA. In amounts as low as several parts per trillion, the compound can make a $400 bottle of wine smell like wet newspaper and taste equally bad. Such wine is said to be "corked." While cork's enemies urge people to throw off the old and embrace new closures, millions of wine drinkers around the world are still in love with the romance of the cork and the ceremony of opening a bottle. With a thorough command of history, science, winemaking, and marketing, Taber examines all sides of the debate. Along the way, he collects a host of great characters and pivotal moments in the production, storage, and consumption of wine, and paints a truly satisfying portrait of a wholly intriguing controversy. As Australian winemaker Brian Croser describes it: "It's scary how passionate people can be on this topic. Prejudice and extreme positions have taken over, and science has often gone out the window."

The Cork Experience $92.76 Set out on an open-bus excursion around Cork and explore important tourist landmarks, including the mysterious Blarney Stone. Kiss the Blarney Stone perched at the top of a 15th century castle to gain the gift of the gab! St Annes Church, better known for its bells than its architecture, is immortalised in the famous song The Bells of Shandon by Francis Sylvester Mahony. Wander around this unique church to see a massive tower, two sides of which are constructed in sandstone and the other two in limestone. On this excursion, learn the poignant history of prisoners at the Cork City Gaol in the 19th century. Visit the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery and look out for Sean Keatings Men of the South, a fine piece of historical romanticism, depicting members of the North Cork Batallion.

No Cork $19.99 No Cork - T-Shirt

Arbor Rally 33 Cork Top Complete Longboard $159.95 Arbor Rally 33" Cork Top Complete Longboard A cork topped carver ideal for barefoot shralping and surf inspired skating around town but can sustain wear of normal skate shoe abuse. The extended platform makes it ideal for longer commutes. Features: * L: 33.25" * W: 8.50" * WB: 20.00" * Plies: 7x Wood * 65 mm Wheels * Durometer: 78a * ABEC 5 Bearings * Gullwing Pro III 8.75" Trucks * 1 4" Riser * Grip: Cork * Artist: Randy Naborikawa WATER BASED FINISHES All Arbor skateboards are produced using a water based sanding sealer to avoid polluting the air we breathe especially when skating. CORK Cork is a bark that s harvested every nine years off cork oaks without harm. It s been used for thousands of years as a valuable renewable resource. Cork is an amazing insulator that dampens road vibration while providing the right grip for barefoot skating.

Wine Barrel Cork Cage® $24.99 The Wine Barrel Cork Cage® is a fun and innovative way to keep and cherish all of your wonderful wine memories. This cork cage is a great way gift to give a bottle of wine to your friends and family*. They'll never forget this clever present. Just drop your treasured corks in the top. This wine barrel, artfully sculpted from metal with entwined colored glass spheres is sure to please anyone receiving it. Patent Pending*Most standard wine bottles fit in this barrel. Exceptions are tall bottles like Gewürztraminer and Riesling. Features: • Sculpted metal work with colored glass spheres • Fun barrel shape • Drop your treasured corks in the topSize: 10"tall x 6 1/2"diameter

Cork $132 This comprehensive book describes cork as a natural product, as an industrial raw-materials, and as a wine bottle closure. From its formation in the outer bark of the cork oak tree to the properties that are of relevance to its use, cork is presented and explained including its physical and mechanical properties. The industrial processing of cork from post-harvest procedures to the production of cork agglomerates and composites is described. Intended as a reference book, this is the ideal compilation of scientific knowledge on state-of-the-art cork production and use Key Features: *Presents comprehensive coverage from cork formation to post-harvest procedures *Explains the physical properties, mechanical properties and quality of cork *Addresses topics of interest for those in food science, agriculture and forestry

Drew Sahara (Women's) - Cork Leather $121.95 Double Depth in a sandal! With two adjustable top and back buckle straps the Sahara can be customized to any foot shape. Great Euro styling with a wide shank and oblique toe. The thick, removable soft cork footbed with memory foam and suede cover can be removed for prescribed orthotics, or replaced when needed. The shock-absorbing outsole disperses energy so your feet, knees and back will thank you. Cool, comfortable and lightweight. Fully leather lined. Available Colors: Black Leather, Cork Leather, Olive Nubuck.

Costumes 202921 Old Whiney 40 Cork Screw $20.86 Stop Whinin and start wine. This Old Whiney Cork Screw features a humorous saying on the top and measures 3 high. Material: Metal Plastic.

Costumes 202922 Old Whiney 50 Cork Screw $20.86 Stop Whinin and start wine. This Old Whiney Cork Screw features a humorous saying on the top and measures 3 high. Material: Metal Plastic.

To Cork or Not to Cork: Tradition, Romance, Science, and the Battle for the Wine Bottle $17.51 In "Judgment of Paris," George M. Taber masterfully chronicled the historic 1976 wine tasting when unknown California wines defeated top French ones, marking a major turning point in wine history. Now he explores the most controversial topic in the world of wine: What product should be used to seal a bottle? Should it be cork, plastic, glass, a screwcap, or some other type of closure still to be invented? For nearly four centuries virtually every bottle of wine had a cork in it. But starting in the 1970s, a revolution began to topple the cork monopoly. In recent years, the rebellion has been gathering strength. Belatedly, the cork industry began fighting back, while trying to retain its predominant position. Each year 20 billion closures go onto wine bottles, and, increasingly, they are not corks. The cause of the onslaught against cork is an obscure chemical compound known as TCA. In amounts as low as several parts per trillion, the compound can make a $400 bottle of wine smell like wet newspaper and taste equally bad. Such wine is said to be "corked." While cork's enemies urge people to throw off the old and embrace new closures, millions of wine drinkers around the world are still in love with the romance of the cork and the ceremony of opening a bottle. With a thorough command of history, science, winemaking, and marketing, Taber examines all sides of the debate. Along the way, he collects a host of great characters and pivotal moments in the production, storage, and consumption of wine, and paints a truly satisfying portrait of a wholly intriguing controversy. As Australian winemaker Brian Croser describes it: "It's scary how passionate people can be on this topic. Prejudice and extreme positions have taken over, and science has often gone out the window."

Hotel Cork International Airport Hotel, County Cork $75 Built in 2007, the hotel is a leap away from the conventional airport hotel. Forget dull corporate bedrooms, lifeless public areas and average food. All guest rooms are designed with comfort and style combined, the restaurant, café and bar are lively areas with a unique feel and the food and drink rival that of a top restaurant. The conference and banqueting areas versatility make them an ideal venue for everything from seminars to perfect weddings. Further facilities include a 24-hour reception, a safe, a currency exchange, a cloakroom, lift access, a hairdresser, Internet access and room and laundry services. In addition, parking is available for those arriving by car.

Drew Amelia (Women's) - Cork Leather $99 New from Drew - a casual, everyday shoe packed with all the comfort features Drew is famous for. Great with slacks, capris, shorts, and skirts! With firm heel counter and elasticized buckle, the Amelia offers maximum adjustability for a customized fit. Opanka Construction. Leather Linings. Removable footbed with soft, suede top cover. Has a Velcro Brand Fastened Footbed and HCPCS Code A5500. Velcro is a registered trademark of Velcro Industries B.V. Available Colors: Brown Leather, Cork Leather.

Cork 12-inch Wall Tiles (Pack of 24) $150.03 Create your own bulletin message area with these cork wall tiles Cork tiles align over the top of a desk or by placing multiple tiles in a square formatCork board pieces have foam tape for easy and secure mountingEach piece measures 12 inches x 12 inches Pack of 24

Natural Cork 12x12-inch Wall Tiles (Case of 144) $747.65 Create your own bulletin message area with natural cork 12x12-inch wall tilesAlign cork board tiles over top of a desk or place multiple tiles in square format over a central work areaSold as a pack of 144 cork wall tilesIncludes foam tape for easy and secure mountingEach tile measures 12 inches square x 0.25-inch thick

ODonnell Industries 93320 Large 43 in. Round Sherpa Top Irish Cork $103.94 Polyester/Cotton fabric.Removable zippered inner liner. Soft sherpa top for more comfort.Washable outer cover. Available in a variety of fabric options. Give your pet a cozy place to get some sleep. Made with a Sherpa top designed to add extra comfort and warmth so your dog is sure to sleep straight through the night. Large: 43 Diameter. Color: Irish Cork.

Plastec Industries Plastec Industries 6 in Eco Cork Mat ECR06 $1.58 6? eco cork mat Prevents rings, stains, and scratches Protects tables, floors, and carpets Long-lasting Cork to top and plastic underside Use as a placemat, coaster, under plants, pots, hot pad, and under candles 6? Brand #: Plastec Industries ECR06 UPC: 726783766222 Keywords: protector cork mat coaster

Plastec Industries Plastec Industries 8 in Eco Cork Mat ECR08 $2.54 8? eco cork mat Prevents rings, stains, and scratches Protects tables, floors, and carpets Long-lasting Cork to top and plastic underside Use as a placemat, coaster, under plants, pots, hot pad, and under candles 8? Brand #: Plastec Industries ECR08 UPC: 726783766239 Keywords: protector cork mat coaster

Plastec Industries Plastec Industries 10 in Eco Cork Mat ECR10 $3.91 10? eco cork mat Prevents rings, stains, and scratches Protects tables, floors, and carpets Long-lasting Cork to top and plastic underside Use as a placemat, coaster, under plants, pots, hot pad, and under candles 10? Brand #: Plastec Industries ECR10 UPC: 726783766246 Keywords: protector cork mat coaster

Champagne Cork $10 Champagne Cork

Board,24x48,Hobby,Cork $9.99 BOARD,24X48,HOBBY,CORK

Aetrex Women's Sandalistas Cork Comfort Hannah $89.95 Incredibly comfortable while still projecting super-modern style, the Hannah sandal from Aetrex provides a smooth ride for miles. Soft fabric up top hugs your foot, while a leather slingback strap features hook-and-eye adjustability. Support features abound in this everyday sandal and you’ll also adore the lightweight cork midsole – it provides a hit of height with zero foot fatigue.

Matt & Nat - Cork Otis (Brown) - Bags and Luggage $44.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the Matt & Nat - Cork Otis (Brown) - Bags and Luggage: With style and socially responsible materials, you'll be the talk of the town with the padded Cork Otis iPad Sleeve. ; Padded iPad sleeve made of natural cork with tone on tone stitching. ; Holds your iPad or other computer technology. ; Front exterior slip pocket with snap closure. ; Top zip around closure. ; Recycled suede interior lining. ; Dimensions: 10.54 wide x .5 deep x 8 high. ; Bottom Width: 10 in

Cutting Cork $24.99 Cutting Cork - Photographic Print

Cork, Ireland $24.99 Cork, Ireland - Photographic Print

Corkscrew with Cork $24.99 Corkscrew with Cork - Photographic Print

Matt & Nat - Cork Otis (Natural) - Bags and Luggage $51.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the Matt & Nat - Cork Otis (Natural) - Bags and Luggage: With style and socially responsible materials, you'll be the talk of the town with the padded Cork Otis iPad Sleeve. ; Padded iPad sleeve made of natural cork with tone on tone stitching. ; Holds your iPad or other computer technology. ; Front exterior slip pocket with snap closure. ; Top zip around closure. ; Recycled suede interior lining. ; Bottom Width: 10 1 4 in ; Middle Width: 10 1 4 in ; Top Width: 10 1 4 in ; Depth: 1 in ; Height: 8 1 2 in ; Weight: 7 oz

Cork Irish Black Cap by CafePress $15 Top it off in our structured black cap made of sturdy, durable brushed canvas. 100% cotton breathes for year-round comfort. Adjustable closure with a low profile crown. Images are permanently adhered with a sturdy patch. Look cool on bad hair days or w Irish Black Cap . Top it off in our structured black cap made of sturdy, durable brushed canvas. 100% cotton breathes for year-round comfort. Adjustable closure with a low profile crown. Images are permanently adhered with a sturdy patch. Look cool on bad hair days or w

ODonnell Industries 91220 Medium Round Pillow Pet Bed with Cream Sherpa Top Irish Cork $77.94 Give your pet a cozy place to get some sleep. Made with a Sherpa top designed to add extra comfort and warmth so your dog is sure to sleep straight through the night. Available in a variety of fabrics and sizes this bed is perfect for any size dog. Polyester/cotton fabric. Removable zippered inner liner. Simulated lamb s wool top. Washable outer cover. Size: 35 Diameter. Top: Cream sherpa. Fabric color: Irish Cork.

ODonnell Industries 93220 Medium Round Pillow Pet Bed with Black Sherpa Top Irish Cork $77.94 Give your pet a cozy place to get some sleep. Made with a Sherpa top designed to add extra comfort and warmth so your dog is sure to sleep straight through the night. Available in a variety of fabrics and sizes this bed is perfect for any size dog. Polyester/cotton fabric. Removable zippered inner liner. Simulated lamb s wool top. Washable outer cover. Size: 35 Diameter. Top: Black sherpa. Fabric color: Irish Cork.

ODonnell Industries 93120 Small 24 in. Round Pet Bed with Black Sherpa Top Irish Cork $51.94 Give your pet a cozy place to get some sleep. Made with a Sherpa top designed to add extra comfort and warmth so your dog is sure to sleep straight through the night. Available in a variety of fabrics and sizes this bed is perfect for any size pet. Polyester/cotton fabric. Removable zippered inner liner. Soft sherpa top for more comfort. Washable outer cover. Available in a variety of fabric options. Black sherpa top. Color: Irish Cork. Diameter: 24 .

ODonnell Industries 91120 Small 24 in. Round Pet Bed with Cream Sherpa Top Irish Cork $51.94 Give your pet a cozy place to get some sleep. Made with a Sherpa top designed to add extra comfort and warmth so your dog is sure to sleep straight through the night. Available in a variety of fabrics and sizes this bed is perfect for any size pet. Polyester/Cotton fabric. Removable zippered inner liner. Soft sherpa top for more comfort. Washable outer cover. Cream sherpa top. Color: Irish Cork. Diameter: 24 .

Komperdell Highlander Cork AntiShock Trekking Poles $89.85 From the Appalachian Trail to the Alps, trekkers have discovered what a difference it makes to hike with poles. Whether you want to ease the impact of steep, rocky descents or give your stride a boost on the uphill, the Komperdell Highlander Cork AS Trekking Poles will be a new favorite on the trails. Made from time-tested aluminum alloy, these hiking poles are fatigue-resistant at increased tensile strength for maximum strength and minimum weight. They are designed with high performance features such as the Stop Lock system to adjust the height, a genuine cork contour grip for ergonomic comfort when your palms get sweaty and an adjustable webbing strap for an efficient, secure hold around your wrist that helps ease hand fatigue. Turn the Anti-Shock Absorption System on to reduce impact on the descents and then turn it off with a simple twist to conserve energy on the ascents. Komperdell Poles have been crafted since 1922 and they continue to innovate to improve your backpacking experience. Sold as a set of 2 poles. Features: Trekking Pole Material: aluminum alloy 7075-T6 Grip Material: genuine cork Strap: Komperdell System webbing strap, adjustable, no buckle Tip: tungsten/carbide flex tip Basic Series Diameter: 18 mm (top section), 16 mm (middle section), 14 mm (bottom section) Stop Lock System: twist the pole sections to tighten or loosen to adjust the height Anti-Shock absorption system: twist to activate or de-activate the shock system Vario mini basket Made in Austria Includes 2 poles Length: 27.6 in, 70 cm (minimum); 55.1 in, 140 cm (maximum)

Snoozer SN91220 Snoozer Round Sherpa Top Dog Bed MediumIrish Cork $77.94 Features: . Medium 36 Diameter . For pets up to 40 lbs. Polyester/cotton fabric . Removable zippered inner liner. Simulated lamb s wool top. Washable outer cover The Snoozer Round Sherpa Top Pet Beds Gives your pet a cozy place to get some sleep. Made with a Sherpa top designed to add extra comfort and warmth so your dog is sure to sleep straight through the night. These wonderful sherpa lambskin top round beds make a perfect nest for your favorite pet. Ultracomfortable the Snoozer Round Sherpa Top Dog Bed offers appearance and longevity. The fill is made from Polyspun with a sprinkle of cedar chips to help reduce odors. The polycotton fleece material is thick and will not wrinkle shrink or lose color over many washings. A Large Brass zipper on the outer cover is hidden under bed. Premium Snoozer fabric in beautiful color choices. This dog bedis perfect for any size dog.nbsp;

Snoozer SN91320 Snoozer Round Sherpa Top Dog Bed LargeIrish Cork $103.94 Features: . Large 43 Diameter . For pets up to 85lbs. Polyester/cotton fabric . Removable zippered inner liner. Simulated lamb s wool top. Washable outer cover The Snoozer Round Sherpa Top Pet Beds Gives your pet a cozy place to get some sleep. Made with a Sherpa top designed to add extra comfort and warmth so your dog is sure to sleep straight through the night. These wonderful sherpa lambskin top round beds make a perfect nest for your favorite pet. Ultracomfortable the Snoozer Round Sherpa Top Dog Bed offers appearance and longevity. The fill is made from Polyspun with a sprinkle of cedar chips to help reduce odors. The polycotton fleece material is thick and will not wrinkle shrink or lose color over many washings. A Large Brass zipper on the outer cover is hidden under bed. Premium Snoozer fabric in beautiful color choices. This dog bed is perfect for any size dog.nbsp;