A FLOOR ELEMENT FOR FORMING A FLOOR COVERING, A FLOOR COVERING, AND A METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A FLOOR ELEMENT

Abstract

A floor element for forming a floor covering, wherein this floor element comprises a decorative layer made of a ceramic material and a support layer arranged beneath this decorative layer, wherein the support layer comprises edges provided with coupling elements configured to perform a mechanical coupling with coupling elements of an adjacent floor element and wherein the floor element comprises an intermediate layer having a resin material permeating a lower surface of the decorative layer.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION The present invention relates to a floor element for forming a floor covering, a floor covering, and a method for manufacturing a floor element. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION More specifically, the invention relates to a floor element for forming a floor covering, wherein this floor element comprises a decorative layer made of a fragile material such as natural stone, glass, or sintered ceramic materials such as porcelain, earthenware, or the like. The decorative layer, for example, could be a ceramic tile. Traditionally, ceramic tiles are installed by laying them side by side on a surface such as a floor or wall. Typically, an adhesive is used to bond the tiles to the surface. The seams between the tiles are grouted. In this way, the tiles are bonded to a rigid surface, for example, a concrete subfloor, thus improving their impact resistance. The bond with the subfloor, and therefore also with the building structure, also leads to significant sound insulation, both in the room where the flooring is installed and in rooms below. The tiled surface is waterproof and hygienic, as it can be cleaned with a damp cloth. However, the step of installing the tiles with adhesive is labor-intensive and represents a significant portion of the labor involved in a typical floor covering installation.Furthermore, this installation technique requires a high level of professional skill to achieve a perfectly level floor covering. Therefore, due to the time and labor involved, professionally installed tiles are typically quite expensive. Replacing an existing tiled floor often requires breaking the tiles, preparing the surface by removing adhesive residue, and then installing new flooring. Therefore, demolishing a tiled floor is a labor-intensive and time-consuming operation. If the goal of the restoration is to replace only one or a few damaged tiles, this operation also becomes difficult, as replacing a single tile should ideally avoid damaging the adjacent tiles. In recent years, manufacturers have attempted to produce tiling solutions that are easier to install. Examples of such attempts are shown in WO 2004 / 097141 and WO 2008 / 097860. The floor elements described in these documents can be placed on a surface and mechanically coupled together to form a floor covering without the use of adhesive, thereby reducing labor and installation time. This type of floor covering is known as a floating floor covering. Specifically, in these documents, a ceramic tile or natural stone slab is fixed to a backing layer comprising coupling elements configured to engage with coupling elements of an adjacent floor element, thus forming a floor covering. On the other hand, since these floor elements are not bonded to a common rigid surface, impact resistance and, consequently, fatigue resistance are significantly reduced. Floating installation can also result in louder footstep noise. The joints between WO 2008 / 097860 tiles can be prone to water penetration, especially after wet cleaning. According to some variations of WO 2004 / 097141, grout can be applied to the joints between adjacent floor elements, which can lead to water impermeability of the respective joint. To improve the impact resistance of ceramic tiles, US 2014 / 349084 suggests a tile with a composite build-up. In this composite tile, a reinforcing layer is arranged between two ceramic layers or between a ceramic layer and a polymer laminate. A fiberglass layer is mentioned as an example of such a reinforcing layer. However, installing this tile is still cumbersome. It requires bonding to an underlying subfloor, for example, through a backer layer with pressure-sensitive adhesive or quick-bonding loop fabric, so that the tile becomes substantially bonded to the subfloor to improve impact resistance. Furthermore, precise tile positioning is difficult. WO 2010 / 072704 proposes a different type of reinforcing layer, namely a steel plate. This steel plate is bonded to the back surface of the ceramic slab or tile. However, installation is also difficult. The tiles are simply placed on a subfloor, making precise tile positioning challenging, and the resulting floor covering is uneven and noisy, permeable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention aims, firstly, to provide an alternative floor element which, according to several of its preferred embodiments, is intended to solve one or more of the problems that arise in the state of the art. Thus, the present invention, according to its first independent aspect, relates to a floor element for forming a floor covering, wherein this floor element comprises a decorative layer made of a ceramic material and a support layer arranged beneath this decorative layer, wherein the support layer comprises edges provided with coupling elements configured to perform a mechanical coupling with coupling elements of an adjacent floor element, and wherein the floor element comprises an intermediate layer having a resin material permeating a lower surface of the decorative layer.The inventors have discovered that, thanks to this solution, the impact resistance of the flooring element, particularly the ceramic decorative layer, is significantly increased. Even with mechanical interlocking between these flooring elements, the impact resistance matches or even exceeds that of traditional elements installed with adhesives. Furthermore, the claimed solution allows for improved impact resistance of the flooring element without the need for additional rigid or resilient reinforcing elements such as rubber layers, fiberglass, or metal plates. In fact, the resin permeating the pores of the decorative layer substantially improves the transmission and dissipation of impact stress through the flooring element, so that less of this energy is absorbed by the decorative layer, thus enhancing its impact resistance.Since rigid reinforcement elements are not required, the resulting floor element is lighter and thinner. Furthermore, the resin acts as a barrier to the propagation of cracks within the decorative layer itself. In addition, in the event of surface cracks in the decorative layer, the intermediate layer maintains the decorative layer's coherence and, ideally, its compaction, thus concealing the visual appearance of the surface cracks. The impact resistance of a floor can be determined by a steel ball impact test. In this test, impact resistance is measured by dropping a steel ball onto the floor element from a certain height. If the floor element does not break, the drop height is increased until the ball breaks the element. The steel ball weighs 225.5 grams and has a diameter of 38.1 mm (1.5 inches). Impact resistance is expressed as the maximum drop height from which the steel ball, upon impact, does not break the floor element. The greater the drop height, the greater the impact resistance. Impact resistance can be expressed in Joules (J), which represents the energy of the steel ball upon striking the surface of the floor element.The inventors have discovered that traditional floors, for example, floors made of porcelain floor tiles approximately 10 mm thick, glued directly to a subfloor, generally exhibit an impact resistance between 1.68 J and 2.25 J (corresponding to a ball falling from a height between 762 and 1016 mm), while known floating floors generally exhibit an impact resistance of less than 1.12 J (corresponding to a ball falling from a height of less than 508 mm). The inventors have discovered that, thanks to this solution, an impact resistance of over 5.62 J can be achieved (corresponding to a steel ball falling from a height above 2540 mm). The fatigue strength of a floor is determined by the Robinson test, in accordance with ASTM C627. In this test, a three-wheeled cart rotates about its center on a sample section of tile flooring. Above each wheel is a rod along which weights can be stacked. A power motor drives the assembly, and the cart rotates at 15 revolutions per minute. The test is run according to a loading schedule with 14 different cycles. For each cycle, the schedule specifies the type of wheel to be used (soft rubber, hard rubber, or steel), the amount of weight to be stacked above each wheel, and the total number of cart revolutions. After each cycle is completed, the sample floor section is visually inspected.The test result rates the floor according to the number of cycles passed without failure and indicates the next service level to which the floor is destined: - The sample that completes cycles 1 to 3 without failing: “Residential” rating; - Samples that complete cycles 1 to 6: Commercial rating “light”; - Samples that complete cycles 1 to 10: Commercial rating “moderate”; - Samples that complete cycles 1 to 12: Commercial “heavy” rating; - Samples that complete all 14 cycles without failure are assigned a commercial "extra heavy" rating. - The inventors have discovered that by using the intermediate layer according to the invention, the Robinson test can result in passing at least 6 cycles (light commercial). According to the most preferred embodiment of the invention, the decorative layer comprises a ceramic body, for example, made of porcelain, red-body ceramic, stoneware, earthenware, or other sintered ceramic powders. Preferably, the decorative layer is a ceramic slab or tile. "Ceramic tile" means an element with a substantially flat body consisting of fired minerals, such as clay, and preferably with a fired decorative top surface, preferably, but not necessarily, glaze-based. The glaze also has the effect of preventing resin permeating the decorative layer from reaching the top surface of the decorative layer, thereby affecting the appearance of the flooring element. It is noted, however, that this first aspect can be advantageously applied to decorative layers made of any type of material that exhibits open porosity, at least on its underside. Examples of such material include brittle materials, such as natural stone, concrete, glass, or glass-ceramic materials. "Brittle material" is understood to mean a material that breaks without significant plastic deformation. In particular, for the purposes of this patent application, "brittle material" means a material (if not bonded to a support layer and without any reinforcing elements) with an impact resistance of less than 1.68 J (corresponding to a ball dropped from a height of less than 762 mm) as determined by the ball impact test. According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the decorative layer may comprise, at least on its underside, an open porosity adapted to allow the resin to permeate the decorative layer itself. Indeed, as previously mentioned, the inventors have surprisingly found that by allowing the resin of the intermediate layer to permeate the pores of the decorative layer, it is possible to significantly improve the transfer of impact energy. Therefore, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the decorative layer comprises an apparent porosity of between 1% and 10%, determined according to ASTM C373, more preferably between 2% and 8%, for example, 6%. The aforementioned apparent porosity ranges and values ​​provide the optimal balance between the intrinsic mechanical properties of the decorative layer and its resin permeability, thereby optimizing impact resistance.In fact, the material's pores, especially closed pores that cannot be permeated by the resin, can represent weak points in the material itself. Therefore, it is preferable that the decorative layer have an apparent porosity of less than 15%, preferably less than 10%, measured according to ASTM C373. Furthermore, the decorative layer should preferably have an open pore volume between 0.01 cc (cubic centimeter) and 1 cc, more preferably between 0.10 cc and 0.90 cc, for example, 0.60 cc. In this way, the pores are large enough to be filled by the resin, while at the same time being small enough not to compromise the mechanical properties of the decorative layer.This result is particularly impressive since the apparent porosity range is peculiar for ceramic tiles that are mainly used for wall coverings or for floor coverings in residential installations, but for floor coverings in commercial installations where traffic is heavier and higher mechanical properties are required, the use of ceramic tiles that have apparent porosity is preferred. Therefore, according to a first preferred possibility, the decorative layer is made of porcelain. Porcelain is a ceramic material obtained by firing at a high temperature, for example, approximately 1200 °C, a mixture of relatively pure raw materials comprising clays, kaolin, quartz, feldspar, calcium carbonate, and / or other mineral raw materials. Porcelain exhibits very low apparent porosity, preferably below 1%, for example, 0.3% as measured according to ASTM C373. The porcelain has an open pore volume between 0.01 cc (cubic centimeter) and 0.1 cc, more preferably between 0.1 cc and 0.6 cc. These porosity values ​​are such that the porcelain material exhibits relatively high mechanical properties, which can be further enhanced by the resin permeating the decorative layer.In fact, a porcelain tile as such, that is, when it is not bonded to a support layer and without the resin permeating the decorative layer, shows an impact resistance of 0.73 J, whereas a floor element comprising a decorative layer made of porcelain bonded above a support layer by means of an intermediate layer comprising a resin that permeates the lower surface of the decorative layer can achieve an impact resistance of up to 3.37 J. Therefore, according to a second preferred embodiment, the decorative layer is made of a red-body ceramic tile. Red-body ceramic is a ceramic material obtained by firing at a high temperature, for example, approximately 1150 °C, from a mixture of raw materials comprising clays, kaolin, quartz, feldspar, calcium carbonate, and / or other mineral raw materials. Red-body ceramic can be fired at a lower temperature than porcelain, thus exhibiting higher porosity and a faster rate of water absorption. Furthermore, red-body ceramic can be obtained from a mixture of raw materials that is less expensive than the mixture of raw materials required to produce porcelain. For example, the red-body ceramic can have an apparent porosity of less than 10%, preferably between 2% and 8%, for example, 6%, measured according to ASTM C373.Red-body ceramics can have an open pore volume between 0.10 cc and 0.90 cc, for example, 0.60 cc. A red-body ceramic tile, as such, i.e., when not bonded to a backing layer and without the resin permeating the decorative layer, typically exhibits an impact resistance of 0.67 J. A floor element comprising a decorative layer made of red-body ceramic bonded above a backing layer by means of an intermediate layer comprising a resin permeating the underside of the decorative layer can achieve an impact resistance of up to 5.62 J. It is noted that a red-body ceramic tile, as such, has a lower impact resistance than a porcelain tile, while a floor element according to the invention, comprising red-body ceramic, exhibits significantly higher impact resistance than a floor element comprising porcelain. The inventors have discovered that the interaction between the resin and the decorative layer is enhanced if the decorative layer comprises a lower surface that is substantially flat. cj innn / i ζπζ / β / υ The underside is the non-visible (in-use) surface opposite the upper decorative surface of the decorative layer. Usually, the underside of a ceramic tile comprises a back structure, generally formed by ribs or grooves, which can be up to 1 mm thick. However, the inventors have found that for applying the resin to the underside itself, it is preferable to use a decorative layer that is free of this back structure, for example, the ribs. Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the underside of the decorative layer, particularly of the ceramic tile, is free of backwash.Backwash is a thin coating, essentially an engobe, applied, often unevenly, to the underside of a ceramic tile. Its function is to prevent unfired ceramic tile material from adhering to the kiln rollers. Since the backwash contains an engobe that is at least partially composed of glass, during the firing process, it melts and permeates the open pores on the tile's underside, rendering the underside itself impermeable. Therefore, the inventors have discovered that a decorative layer on a ceramic tile with an underside free of backwash provides improved resin permeability on the tile's underside.It is also possible for backwashing to cover a portion of the underside of the decorative layer, less than 20%, preferably 10%. This way, the backwash does not completely waterproof the underside, allowing the resin to permeate the porous surface of the decorative layer. At the same time, it aids in the manufacturing process by preventing unfired ceramic tile material from sticking to the kiln rollers. The decorative layer has an upper surface comprising a decoration. The decoration can be provided with a variety of textures, designs, and colors. In a preferred embodiment, the decoration simulates a natural product, such as natural stone or wood. Preferably, the decoration is formed at least partially by a print. The print is preferably made by digital printing, such as inkjet printing, although screen printing, gravure, flexography, or offset printing are not excluded. According to one variant, the decoration is formed at least partially by a uniformly colored base material or by a mixture of colored base materials. The decorative layer may comprise a base coating that at least partially covers its upper surface and is adapted to receive decoration on its upper surface, for example, to receive printing on its upper surface. The base coating may be white, beige, brown, or any color suitable for receiving decoration on its upper surface. If the decorative layer is made of a ceramic material, the base coating preferably comprises at least one glaze covering the upper surface of the ceramic body. The decorative layer may also include a protective coating that at least partially covers its upper surface and is designed to be placed over the decoration. The protective coating can be transparent or translucent. Clearly, the protective coating can be used in combination with the base coating. If the decorative layer is made of a ceramic material, the protective coating is preferably a varnish. Preferably, the decorative layer has a thickness between 4 and 15 mm, preferably between 6 and 12 mm, and more preferably above 7 mm, for example, 8 or 10 mm. The inventors have discovered that by adding an intermediate layer, satisfactory fatigue behavior can be achieved for a relatively thin decorative layer. Furthermore, it should be noted that these preferred thicknesses allow for a good balance between material weight and cost on the one hand, and mechanical strength on the other. Generally speaking, greater thicknesses correspond to greater weight and cost, but also greater mechanical strength. Thanks to the reinforcing effect provided by the resin permeating the underside of the decorative layer, it is possible to reduce the thickness of the decorative layer itself.In any case, it should also be noted that the rigidity of the decorative layer restricts the thermal expansion of the support layer, and that this restraining effect is enhanced as the thickness of the decorative layer increases. It is noted that the decorative layer may have a density, expressed as a surface weight, of at least 10 kg / m², preferably 15 kg / m², for example, above 19 kg / m². A high density of the decorative layer can improve the installation of the flooring and, in particular, the vertical interlocking between the floor elements, as will be described in more detail later. It is also preferred that the decorative layer have a surface weight density of less than 35 kg / m², preferably below 30 kg / m², for example, below 25 kg / m². An excessively heavy decorative layer can affect the handling of the floor element, as well as complicate its packaging and transport. It is clear that the decorative layer can be made in any shape, for example, square, rectangular, or hexagonal. In the preferred embodiment, the floor elements are rectangular and oblong in shape and are preferably provided with a wood grain print representing wood grain lines extending globally in the longitudinal direction of the rectangular decorative layer. The covering element can further comprise any dimensions, although it is preferred that it comprise a surface area of ​​less than 1.5 square meters, preferably less than 1 square meter, and more preferably less than 0.4 square meters. According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the intermediate layer comprises a resin, for example, a thermoset or thermoplastic resin. Examples of thermoset resins include epoxy, polyurethane, cyanoacrylate, and acrylic resins. Examples of thermoplastic resins include hot melt, polyester thermoplastic, vinyl, etc. Preferably, the resin is a rigid resin. In fact, the inventors have discovered that a rigid resin, as opposed to a flexible resin, improves the transfer of impact energy between layers. In particular, according to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the intermediate layer comprises an epoxy resin. It is also preferred that the epoxy be a two-component resin, i.e., a thermoset resin obtained by curing a mixture of two components, i.e., a resin and a hardener, at a low temperature (e.g., room temperature).When the two resin components are mixed, the curing reaction begins so that it is not necessary to activate the curing process by providing external energy, such as heat, UV radiation, or electric arc. This external energy could optionally be provided to accelerate the curing process. According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the resin has a viscosity at 20°C below 1000 PaS, preferably below 800 PaS, and more preferably below 600 PaS, for example, approximately 400 PaS. Within the scope of the invention, viscosity means the viscosity of the uncured resin, for example, the viscosity of the mixture of the two components before the curing process is complete, i.e., during the so-called pot life.In fact, the inventors have discovered that if the resin is sufficiently fluid, during its application to the back of the decorative layer, it can permeate the pores of the decorative layer, greatly improving the bond between the intermediate layer and the decorative layer. In practice, when the resin permeates the pores of the decorative layer, it essentially forms a "composite polymer-ceramic layer" that significantly improves the impact resistance of the flooring element. It is noted that, according to a preferred solution, the resin is in a substantially liquid state during the manufacturing process of the flooring element. However, it is not excluded that the resin may be in a paste or gel state during the manufacturing process, for example, exhibiting thixotropic behavior in order to achieve sufficient fluidity to permeate the pores of the decorative layer under predetermined process conditions, such as during a pressing step.According to one embodiment of the invention, the intermediate layer may comprise two or more different resins. For example, the intermediate layer may comprise a first resin for permeating the pores of the decorative layer and a second resin for bonding the decorative layer and the support layer. According to this embodiment, the first resin may be a rigid resin for reinforcing the decorative layer, and the second resin may be, for example, a soft or elastomeric resin that provides a cushioning effect in case of impact. The inventors have also discovered that the resin can preferably be free of fillers, such as mineral fillers. In fact, the inventors have found that while the presence of fillers improves the mechanical properties of the resin, it also increases its viscosity, thus hindering the permeation of the decorative layer. The resin preferably comprises a tensile strength between 50 and 90 MPa, more preferably between 60 and 80 MPa, for example, 75 MPa. It is noted that the resin preferably comprises a compressive strength between 90 and 130 MPa, more preferably between 100 and 120 MPa, for example, 110 MPa. The inventors have found that this strength is sufficient to provide a rigid matrix for the composite polymer-ceramic layer, enabling the dissipation of impact energy. It is also noted that the resin preferably exhibits a hardness value of at least 50, measured on the Shore D scale. Preferably, the resin covers at least a portion of the underside of the decorative layer, for example, most, i.e., at least 50 percent, of the underside of this decorative layer. More preferably, the resin covers 80 percent or more of the underside of the decorative layer, for example, 100 percent, so that the effect of distributing and dissipating impact energy is achieved for an impact occurring at any point on the decorative layer. The resin is preferably provided on the lower surface of the decorative layer in an amount above 150 g / m2, more preferably above 200 g / m2, for example 220 g / m2 so that the resin is in an amount sufficient to fully permeate the open pores of the lower surface of the decorative layer. It is also preferable that the resin be supplied in a sufficient quantity to overflow from the open porosity of the decorative layer in order to act as an adhesive for the support layer. In other words, it is preferable that the resin partially permeate the open porosity of the decorative layer and partially coat its underside to form the intermediate layer and improve energy transfer. This energy transfer effect is further enhanced if the support layer is fixed directly to the intermediate layer and, in particular, to the portion of resin that coats the underside of the decorative layer, so that the intermediate layer acts as an adhesive layer bonding the decorative and support layers. Furthermore, the intermediate layer may include a reinforcing element. This reinforcing element can be embedded in the intermediate layer, for example, within the resin material, or it can be a reinforcing layer placed between the intermediate layer and the support layer. The reinforcing element may comprise fibers such as glass fibers, carbon fibers, polymer fibers (for example, aramid or polyamide fibers), or ceramic fibers (for example, boron or silicate fibers). The fibers may be woven or non-woven, for example, with fibers arranged in different orientations, and may be in the form of a mat, fleece, or fabric. This reinforcing element can be used to further improve the impact resistance of the flooring elements, especially in the case of special and unusual installations such as raised floors. According to an alternative arrangement, the reinforcing element may comprise a metal plate, for example, a steel or aluminum plate. Preferably, the metal plate is configured to create a state of compression in the decorative layer. In this way, since the decorative layer is in a state of compression, impact resistance is significantly improved because the compression hinders crack propagation and helps to conceal the visual effect of surface cracks. To achieve this, the metal plate is first stretched, for example, by mechanical or thermal stretching, and then bonded to the decorative layer while the metal plate is in the stretched state. Subsequently, the stretch is released, either by interrupting the mechanical stress or by cooling the metal plate itself, thus creating a state of compression in the decorative layer.For example, in this method, the metal plate has a higher coefficient of thermal expansion than the decorative layer. Thanks to this solution, the reinforcing element is heated to an extended state, then bonded to the decorative layer while still in this extended state, and subsequently cooled to shrink and compress the decorative layer. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the support layer is made of a material that is different from the material of the decorative layer. More particularly, the support layer is preferably made of a material adapted to accommodate coupling elements and / or made of a waterproof material and / or made of a compressible material. The backing layer is preferably made of a polymeric material. Polymeric materials have good mechanical properties combined with relatively low cost and weight, and they also provide a waterproof and sound-reducing backing layer. It should be noted that the expression "preferably made of a polymeric material" does not necessarily mean that the backing layer is made exclusively of a polymeric material. In particular, it does not exclude the possibility that the backing layer may comprise fillers such as fibers, strands, strands, or particles, made of polymeric or non-polymeric material. Furthermore, it does not necessarily mean that the polymeric material constitutes the majority of the material in the backing layer, for example, more than 50% by weight. In any case, this expression generally means that the polymeric material represents the matrix surrounding and binding this filler. Preferably, the backing layer is made of a thermoplastic polymer material. Preferred examples of thermoplastic material are PVC (polyvinyl chloride), polypropylene (PP), or polyurethane, more particularly thermoplastic polyurethane. Preferably, this thermoplastic polymer material has a glass transition temperature (Tg) below 1002°C. Forming the backing layer from a material with a relatively low glass transition temperature results in a backing layer that is easily compressed at room temperature. Compression is desirable in many respects. For example, potential thermal expansion of the backing layer can be partially or completely suppressed by the more rigid or tougher decorative layer and / or reinforcing element that holds the backing layer material in its original dimensions.Compression is also interesting for the design of the coupling elements and allows a certain adaptation to the irregularity of the subsoil, which in turn prevents the air chambers between the support layer and the subsoil from amplifying running noises. Among thermoplastic materials, PVC is a preferred choice for the backing layer due to its balance of processability, physical and mechanical properties, and cost. Furthermore, the inventors have discovered that PVC exhibits good affinity with resin, particularly epoxy resins, enabling the formation of a very good bond and interface between the backing layer and the intermediate layer. This interface enhances the transfer of impact energy between the layers of the flooring element, thereby improving its impact resistance. Additionally, the inventors have found that the interaction between PVC and resin, particularly epoxy, reduces or eliminates any delamination between the backing layer and the intermediate layer, resulting in improved fatigue resistance of the flooring element.In fact, since this good interaction will prevent delamination between the decorative layer and the support, the floor element will maintain its mechanical properties substantially unaltered even after prolonged stress, thus showing good fatigue resistance. In a preferred embodiment, the backing layer is made of rigid or flexible PVC, wherein the rigid PVC comprises a plasticizer quantity of less than 15 phr, and the flexible PVC comprises a plasticizer quantity of 15 phr or higher, preferably more than 20 or more than 25 phr. In the context of this description, “rigid” means that the support layer, taken alone, bends under its own weight less than 10 cm per meter, and even better, less than 5 cm per meter, while “flexible” means that the support layer, taken alone, bends under its own weight more than 10 cm per meter. The support layer may also comprise filler materials, such as mineral particles, for example, chalk and / or calcium carbonate. This filler may be present in the support layer in a relatively high quantity, for example, more than 30% or more than 60% by weight of said filler materials.Fillers add weight to the subfloor, making it highly effective at preventing footstep noise from reaching the rooms below. Rigid PVC containing fillers is also known as SPC (solid polymer composite). The filler content should preferably be limited to less than 70% by weight, for example, less than 50% by weight, to avoid excessively increasing the brittleness of the subfloor. Rigid PVC provides a subfloor with good dimensional stability when exposed to temperature variations. In other words, the expansion of the subfloor when exposed to high temperatures is limited, thus providing good floor stability. Preferably, rigid PVC has a coefficient of thermal expansion below 85 µm / m per °C, preferably below 60 µm / m per °C, for example, 50 µm / m per °C.For example, the coefficient of thermal expansion of the backing layer, especially if it is made of rigid PVC, ranges from 20 µm / m per °C to 85 µm / m per °C, preferably from 40 µm / m per °C to 60 µm / m per °C. A backing layer made of flexible PVC has lower dimensional stability but is more easily compressed, and therefore its tendency to expand will be suppressed at least to some extent by the decorative layer and / or the intermediate layer. The inventors have discovered that the best results in terms of impact resistance can be achieved by using a support layer made of rigid polymeric material, preferably PVC. Therefore, according to the preferred embodiment, the support layer is made of a rigid polymeric material, preferably PVC, which may have a flexural modulus between 1.5 and 3.5 GPa, for example, approximately 2.6 GPa. The support layer may also have a flexural strength between 60 and 90 MPa, for example, approximately 76 MPa. Furthermore, the support layer may have a compressive strength between 40 and 70 MPa, for example, approximately 56 MPa. In fact, the inventors have found that the rigidity of the support layer helps to absorb impact energy, thereby improving impact resistance. According to a deviated embodiment, a support layer made of flexible PVC, or any other material, thermoplastic or not, can be designed to compensate for dimensional variations due to temperature variations. For example, the support layer can be formed from a plurality of separate elements, such as strips, or it can comprise grooves that separate adjacent portions of the support layer, thus allowing expansion of the portions without affecting the overall stability of the floor. These grooves preferably open toward the underside of the support layer. Furthermore, the support layer preferably has a thickness between 2 and 7 mm, preferably less than 6 mm, and more preferably around 4 mm or less. A thinner support layer provides limited cost and greater thermal stability, particularly because the thermal expansion of a thinner support layer can be more effectively suppressed by the rigidity of the support layer. For example, the preferred embodiment of the invention provides a support layer made of rigid PVC and exhibiting a thickness of 4 mm, which represents a good solution in terms of thermal stability, noise reduction, low weight, and low cost. As previously stated, the inventors have discovered that the rigidity of the decorative layer helps to suppress the thermal expansion of the support layer, and that the rigidity of these layers depends on their thicknesses. Therefore, according to the preferred embodiment, the decorative layer comprises a thickness equal to or greater than the thickness of the support layer; preferably, the thickness of the decorative layer is at least 1 times, preferably 1.5 times, and more preferably 2 times the thickness of the support layer. The thickness of the flooring element is less than 20 mm, preferably 18 mm or less, and more preferably 13 mm or less. This results in a relatively thin flooring element, reducing its visual impact on the surrounding environment, especially when refurbishing existing floors. Furthermore, this limits the surface weight of the flooring element, simplifying packaging, transport, and installation. For example, the surface weight of the flooring element is at least 18 kg / m², preferably at least 21 kg / m². For instance, in a preferred embodiment where the decorative layer is made of porcelain and is 8.5 mm thick, and the backing layer is made of PVC and is 4 mm thick, the surface weight of the flooring element is approximately 24 kg / m². This achieves a good balance between cost-effectiveness in transport and packaging and ease of installation.In fact, a weight above these limits can aid the coupling between two floor elements, especially improving a vertical lock between them. It is noted that, according to the most preferred embodiment of the invention, the flooring element comprises a decorative ceramic layer, preferably made of porcelain or red-body ceramic, a backing layer made of rigid PVC, and an intermediate layer comprising a resin that permeates the underside of the decorative layer. Preferably, the decorative ceramic layer has a thickness between 6 and 12 mm, more preferably 8 mm. Preferably, the backing layer has a thickness of less than 6 mm, more preferably 4 mm. This embodiment provides a flooring element with particularly effective thermal stability, such that the flooring is unaffected by temperature variations in the room. Furthermore, this effect is achieved by a flooring element with a thickness of less than 13 mm. This relatively low thickness offers advantages in terms of packaging, cost, and handling. As mentioned previously, the support layer comprises edges with mating elements configured to mechanically engage with mating elements of an adjacent floor element. A “mechanical engagement” is understood to mean an engagement that allows adjacent floor elements to be joined together without the need for glue or similar materials. A mechanical engagement can be achieved by means of profiled edge contours comprising mating elements, mostly a male and a female part, that fit together. It is noted that, preferably, the mating elements are configured such that this mechanical engagement results in a locking mechanism between these edges in vertical directions and / or one or more horizontal directions. The coupling elements preferably comprise at least one male part and at least one female part, wherein these male and female parts, in the connected state of two of these floor elements, are coupled together. The male and female parts are preferably at least partially formed in the support layer. For example, the male and / or female part may be formed entirely in this support layer. These male and female parts, in a connected state of two similar floor elements, couple together to create a mechanical coupling between their respective edges, preferably resulting in a locking mechanism between these edges in vertical directions and / or one or more horizontal directions. As used herein, the terms horizontal and “vertical” are basically expressed with respect to a floor covering installed on a surface that is considered horizontal in its general sense. Therefore, when used with respect to a single floor element that is a substantially flat element provided with a principal plane, the terms horizontal and “vertical” should be considered respectively equivalent to the terms “parallel to the principal plane of the installed floor element(s)” and “perpendicular to the principal plane of the installed floor element(s).” More specifically, in a coupled condition of two adjacent floor elements, the coupling elements cooperate and preferably form locking surfaces that limit the mutual movement of these floor elements in vertical directions and / or one or more horizontal directions. Preferably, in a coupled condition of two adjacent floor elements, first locking surfaces are formed that limit the mutual movement of these floor elements in a direction perpendicular to the coupled edges and in a substantially horizontal plane. Furthermore, in this coupled condition, second locking surfaces are formed that limit the mutual movement of these floor elements in a substantially vertical direction. Thanks to this solution, the floor elements can be installed smoothly without the appearance of unacceptable height differences between adjacent floor elements.Furthermore, the floor elements are securely coupled to each other to improve the fatigue resistance of the floor covering. Additionally, by limiting the relative movement of the floor elements, it is possible to reduce the effect of footstep noise, i.e., to reduce the noise generated with each step. According to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the male and female parts can be positioned substantially along the entire length of the related edge, for example, substantially defining the related edge. For example, according to this embodiment, the male and female parts can be formed essentially as a tongue and groove extending substantially across the entire length of the related, mutually opposite edges. Preferably, the male part is positioned on a first edge of the floor element, and at least one of the female parts is positioned on a second, opposite edge of the floor element. Alternatively, the male and female parts may extend over a portion of a limited length of the related edge, where this limited length is less than the entire length of the related edge itself, preferably less than half the length of the related edge. According to this arrangement, the edges preferably comprise free sections of the male and female parts. Geometries for joining parts according to this alternative arrangement include cooperating male and female parts that, in a top plan view, resemble dovetail joints, or male and female parts that, in a top plan view, resemble jigsaw puzzle connections. In some configurations, the coupling elements are designed so that, in a coupled condition, a prestressed state is established between them. In other words, the coupling element is designed so that, in the coupled condition, it deforms elastically, thus exerting a counter-reaction on each other. Thanks to this solution, the coupling between the floor elements is strengthened, and the coupling itself contributes to the waterproofing of the floor covering. In any case, according to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling elements are configured so that, in a coupled condition, the coupling is free of pretension, thus simplifying the coupling and requiring the operator to exert less force. That is, in the coupled condition, the coupling elements are in an undeformed state. Furthermore, the coupling movement of the coupling element, i.e., the relative movement between the coupling elements that enables mechanical coupling, also occurs without deformation of the coupling elements. For example, in some embodiments, in the coupled condition, a clearance is established between the coupling elements so that small movements between the coupling elements are permitted in a vertical and / or horizontal direction.For example, the dimension of the male part in a plane orthogonal to the respective edge is equal to or slightly less than the dimension of the female part in the same plane. The coupling elements are configured to allow coupling by means of a movement of one floor element relative to an adjacent floor element. This movement can be a translational movement in a downward direction, for example, vertically; a translational movement in a horizontal direction, for example, perpendicular to the edges; or an angled movement around a horizontal axis parallel to the edges. It is clear that the respective movement then preferably results in the aforementioned male and female parts of adjacent floor elements coupling to each other. Thus, the coupling elements can be interpreted according to several different possibilities, two of which are briefly described below. According to a first possibility, these coupling elements are configured to engage with each other by means of an angled movement around a horizontal axis parallel to the edges. According to this first possibility, it is also preferred that the coupling element be configured to engage by means of a translational movement in a horizontal direction, for example, perpendicular to the edge. According to this first possibility, the male and female parts are shaped respectively as a tongue and groove, where the tongue projects outward beyond its respective edge in a horizontal direction and the groove projects inward with respect to the respective edge in a horizontal direction.As previously stated, the tongue and groove are configured such that, in a mated condition, the first and second locking surfaces are formed to limit the relative movements of the floor elements in the vertical and horizontal directions, respectively, where the horizontal direction is perpendicular to the edge. According to the preferred embodiment, the tongue comprises a horizontally extending lip and a downwardly projecting hump. Consequently, in this embodiment, the groove has a horizontal slit to receive the lip of the tongue and an upwardly facing hollow portion to receive the hump of the tongue, so that the tongue can be fitted into the groove.It is also preferred that, in a mated condition, the tongue fits into the groove such that a horizontal gap is created between the tip of the tongue, particularly its lip, and the bottom of the groove, particularly its recess. It is also preferred that, in a mated condition, the tongue fits into the groove such that a vertical gap is created between the bottom surface of the tongue, particularly its lip, and the groove, particularly its recess. This solution provides a tongue with a lip narrower than the groove, thus significantly improving the tilting movement for mating the floor elements.It is also preferred that, in the engaged condition, the downward-projecting hump of the tongue contacts the hollow portion of the groove, and the upper surface of the tongue contacts the groove. Specifically, it is preferred that the lower surface of the tongue contacts the groove only at the hump. This provides these secondary contact surfaces and, at the same time, simplifies engagement by tilting, because the lower contact surface is formed only at the hump of the tongue and not at its lip. In other words, the lip has more space within the tongue to perform the tilting movement. Furthermore, according to the preferred embodiment of this first possibility, a clearance is formed in the mated condition of the tongue and groove. This clearance allows for small movements in a vertical and / or horizontal direction, preferably horizontal. The clearance is such that the tongue and groove can be mated together without deformation. As a result, the effort required by the installer is significantly reduced. This is particularly important because, while the weight of the decorative layer complicates installation, it also helps to secure the floor elements together. Therefore, a slightly loose fit due to play is acceptable and actually improves ease of installation. Preferably, this play is greater than 0.01 mm, and preferably greater than 0.03 mm. Furthermore, this play is preferably less than 0.10 mm, for example, less than 0.08 mm.According to a second possibility, this coupling element is configured to engage by means of a translational movement in a downward, for example, vertical direction. According to this second possibility, the coupling elements comprise an upward-facing, lower hook-shaped portion located on one edge, and a downward-facing, upper hook-shaped portion located on the opposite edge. The lower hook-shaped portion defines an upward-facing cavity forming a female part, while the upper hook-shaped portion defines a downward-facing lip forming a male part. Once in a engaged position, the downward-facing lip and the upward-facing cavity form the first locking surface to limit mutual movement in a horizontal direction, for example, perpendicular to the edge.Preferably, the upper hook-shaped portion and the lower hook-shaped portion, more preferably the lip and the cavity respectively, are configured so that in the coupled condition, a second locking surface is formed to limit mutual movement of the floor elements in the vertical direction. More particularly, the upper hook-shaped portion and the lower hook-shaped portion are configured so that two sets of these second locking surfaces are formed, for example, on opposite sides of the male and female parts. Preferably, both the upper hook-shaped portion and the lower hook-shaped portion comprise recessed portions so that, in the coupled condition, the first and / or second locking surfaces are formed to limit mutual movement of the floor elements.Furthermore, the coupling elements according to this second possibility are configured to deform during the coupling movement. Preferably, the lower hook-shaped portion comprises a flexible lever portion configured to deform upon coupling with the upper hook-shaped portion, such that this deformation enables the coupling of the recessed parts. It is observed that the floor element may comprise the same coupling elements, i.e., according to the first or second possibility, on all its edges. However, according to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the floor element may comprise coupling elements of different shapes or dimensions on different edges. For example, a floor element may comprise coupling elements according to the first possibility on a first pair of opposite edges, for example, in the case of a rectangular floor element, the long edges, and coupling elements according to the second possibility on a second pair of opposite edges, for example, the short edges.In other words, a rectangular floor element can comprise coupling elements adapted to engage by a tilting movement at their long edges and coupling elements adapted to engage by a downward translational movement at their short edges. This solution significantly simplifies the coupling between the floor elements. Specifically, thanks to the tilting movement, for example, provided by a tongue and groove, it is easy to align the long edges of the floor elements, thus simplifying positioning and providing a strong vertical and horizontal coupling between the long edges. Meanwhile, the short edges can be easily coupled by a downward translational movement as a direct result of the coupling between the long edges.This is particularly advantageous with heavy decorative layers. Once the mating elements (tongue and groove on the long sides) are engaged according to the first method, it is sufficient to simply place the floor element in a horizontal position to mechanically engage the mating elements (on the short edges) according to the second method, without needing to hammer or tap the floor element itself. This also applies if the mating elements (on the short edges) deform during assembly, as the weight of the decorative layer may be sufficient to cause this deformation. Preferably, the support layer has a shape that basically corresponds to the decorative layer, but preferably with one or more parts extending beyond the decorative layer. The support layer may also comprise one or more slits extending beneath the decorative layer. The support layer is preferably a coherent element, wherein the support layer preferably covers most, i.e., at least 50 percent, of the underside of the decorative layer. For example, the support layer covers 80 percent or more of the underside of the decorative layer. More preferably, the support layer completely covers the underside of the decorative layer (i.e., it covers 100%), and in some embodiments, it may extend beyond the underside of the decorative layer.Turning the viewpoint, the decorative layer may only partially cover the upper surface of the support layer, preferably most of it, for example, more than 50%, or preferably more than 80%, for example, 90% or more. According to one variant, the support layer comprises a plurality of separate, adjacent support layer parts, in which case this plurality of support layer parts preferably covers at least 50 percent of the lower surface, or even 80 percent or more thereof. Preferably, the support layer is attached to the decorative layer such that it extends beyond at least one edge of the decorative layer, for example, at least two edges of the decorative layer, preferably back edges of the decorative layer, and more preferably beyond all edges of the decorative layer. In particular, according to the preferred embodiment, the decorative layer is mounted on the support layer such that it is centered on a top surface of the support layer, for example, each top edge of the support layer extends beyond the edge of the decorative layer by the same predetermined distance.It is also possible that the decorative layer may be mounted on the support layer in an offset position relative to the top surface of the support layer, such that the predetermined distance between the top edge of the support layer and the edge of the decorative layer varies from edge to edge of the decorative layer. This predetermined distance is at least 0.5 mm, more preferably 0.75 mm, for example 1 or 1.5 mm. The flooring element can be of any size, although it is preferred that it have a surface area of ​​less than 1.5 square meters, preferably less than 1 square meter, and more preferably less than 0.4 square meters. For example, the flooring element, and in particular the decorative layer, includes a border with a maximum length of less than 1.5 m, preferably less than 0.9 m. Flooring elements are intended to be installed on a subfloor that may have irregularities such as depressions or protrusions, which can affect the installation of the flooring, its impact resistance, and its fatigue resistance. For flooring elements with a reduced area, the effect of these irregularities, as well as the likelihood of encountering them, is minimized.Furthermore, the decorative layer, especially if made of ceramic material, may be slightly curved, which can lead to similar problems due to subfloor irregularities. The larger the side of the decorative layer, the greater the flexing, so it is preferable for the flooring element and the decorative layer to have a reduced surface area. According to the preferred embodiment of the invention, in a coupled condition of two of these floor elements, an intermediate distance is available between the respective upper edges of adjacent floor elements. Preferably, the decorative layer is mounted on the support layer such that, when the floor elements are coupled, the intermediate distance is available between the edges of adjacent decorative layers, while the edges of the underlying support layer are coupled together by means of the available coupling elements. Thanks to this solution, slight dimensional variations of the decorative layer of adjacent tiles can be tolerated. In cases where the decorative layer is formed by one or more ceramic tiles, either unrectified or rectified tiles can be selected, with unrectified tiles being preferred as they are less expensive than rectified tiles.Even when rectified tiles are selected, an intermediate distance of at least 1.5 millimeters is preferred; for example, approximately 3 millimeters or more for non-rectified tiles. Generally, with fragile decorative layers, direct contact between the edges of decorative layers and adjacent floor elements is best prevented to minimize the risk of breaking off edge portions after installation or after use of the flooring. Preventing direct contact between the edges of decorative layers also avoids squeaking noises when the floor is walked on. Furthermore, some decorative and / or support layers may expand or contract due to thermal variation. The available intermediate distance prevents this expansion and contraction from affecting the stability of the floor.For example, the default distance between the edges of the decorative layer and the top edge of the support layers is the same for all edges of the decorative layer and is preferably half the distance between the respective top edges of adjacent floor elements in the mated condition. This solution is especially preferred when using non-rectified tiles because it simplifies the positioning of tiles that may have slightly different dimensions on support layers that have the same dimensions. The intermediate distance, or space, between the decorative layers of adjacent floor elements can also be finished in several possible ways. According to one possibility, this intermediate space between the floor elements can be filled with grout, thus providing a waterproof floor covering. Preferably, a polymer and / or cement-based grout is used. The grout can be either flexible or rigid. A flexible grout could be, for example, a silicone-based grout, while a rigid grout could be, for example, an epoxy-based or cement-based grout. Epoxy-based and silicone-based grouts are examples of polymer grouts; other examples of polymer grouts are polyurethane-based or acrylic-based grouts. In a second possibility, the decorative layer may be at least partially, preferably completely, surrounded by a joint so that in a coupled condition of two adjacent floor elements, this joint is compressed by the decorative layer of an adjacent floor element to form a substantially airtight connection between the floor elements. It is observed that the feature of the floor element comprising an intermediate layer having a resin material that permeates a lower surface of the decorative layer constitutes an inventive idea independently of the presence of a backing layer, and in particular a backing layer comprising edges with coupling elements configured to achieve mechanical coupling with coupling elements of an adjacent floor element. Therefore, the present invention, according to its second independent aspect, relates to a floor element for forming a floor covering, wherein this floor element comprises a first decorative layer made of a ceramic material and a second layer arranged beneath this decorative layer, wherein the second layer comprises a resin material that permeates a lower surface of the decorative layer.According to this second independent aspect of the invention, the floor element may optionally comprise a third support layer positioned beneath the second layer. Furthermore, this third support layer may optionally comprise one or more of the features of the support layer described above in relation to the first independent aspect. It is clear that the decorative layer and the intermediate layer may also comprise one or more of the features described above in relation to the first independent aspect. By way of example, a flooring element according to this second independent aspect can be installed on a subfloor using a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer and a layer of fast-adhesive loop fabric (e.g., Velcro®). For example, the flooring element may comprise a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer positioned beneath a second layer, for example, a bi-adhesive layer covered by a protective film that will be removed before the flooring element is installed on the subfloor. Alternatively, the flooring element can also be installed on a pressure-sensitive adhesive underlay. As a further example, a flooring element according to this second independent aspect can be installed on a subfloor using a layer of fast-adhesive loop fabric (e.g., Velcro®).In this case, the floor element may comprise a third support layer consisting of a hook-and-loop fabric adapted to interlock with a lower subfloor layer. Furthermore, for example, the floor element according to this second independent aspect may be installed in a subfloor by magnetic means. In this case, the floor element may comprise a third support layer consisting of a magnetic and / or ferromagnetic material suitable for interacting with a lower magnetic and / or ferromagnetic subfloor layer. It should be noted that the fact that the resin material can be used to form a floor covering comprising a decorative layer, for example, made of a ceramic material, and wherein the resin permeates a lower surface of the decorative layer, constitutes an inventive idea independently of any additional feature of the floor element, such as, for example, the nature of the decorative layer and the presence of the backing layer. Therefore, according to a third independent aspect, the invention relates to the use of a resin material to bond a decorative layer made of a ceramic material and a backing layer to form a floor element. The resin material may comprise one or more of the features of the backing layer described above in relation to the first independent aspect.Furthermore, the decorative layer and the support layer may comprise one or more of the features described above in relation to the first independent aspect. According to a fourth independent aspect of the invention, a floor covering is provided comprising a plurality of adjacent floor elements, wherein each floor element comprises a decorative layer of ceramic material and a support layer placed beneath the decorative layer, wherein the floor covering comprises the combination of the following features: at least one floor element comprises an intermediate layer having a resin material permeating a lower surface of the decorative layer; the floor elements comprise coupling elements configured to perform coupling with coupling elements of adjacent floor elements; the floor covering comprises a grout filling an intermediate distance separating the decorative layers of the floor elements.Preferably, the floor elements are separated from a subsurface, for example, the subfloor; that is, they are not bonded to the subsurface by adhesive or mechanical means. This solution provides a floor covering composed of floor elements installed without adhesive, exhibiting satisfactory high impact and fatigue resistance, and is completely waterproof. Through the second aspect, the inventors have finally offered a solution to a long-sought need in the world of ceramic flooring. They have provided an easy-to-install ceramic tile floor with good impact resistance and waterproofing. It is clear that the floor elements of the first aspect, and preferred embodiments thereof, can be used to form a floor covering according to the third aspect hereof. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the floor covering comprises a lower layer placed beneath the floor elements, configured to act as a moisture barrier. This solution prevents mold growth beneath the floor elements. Alternatively, or in combination with this solution, the lower layer can be configured to act as a noise barrier, thereby reducing noise generated by footsteps on the floor. The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing the floor element, for example, the floor element of the present invention. Therefore, according to a fifth independent aspect of the invention, a method for manufacturing a floor element is provided comprising the steps of: providing a decorative layer made of a ceramic material; providing a support layer; providing a resin material to bond the decorative layer and the support layer; and pressing the layers together to form the floor element so that the resin material permeates the ceramic layer. This method allows the manufacture of floor elements to be installed on a subfloor without glue or adhesive and exhibits resistance to impact and fatigue. Furthermore, this method enables the manufacture of high-strength floor elements in a simple and efficient manner.In fact, since a rigid reinforcing element is not required, the method comprises a small number of steps, making it relatively quick and usable with relatively simple equipment. It is clear that the resulting floor element preferably exhibits the characteristics of the floor elements described above in the invention. The step of applying the decorative layer may include a brushing and / or grinding step on the underside of the decorative layer. This brushing and / or grinding step aims to prepare the underside of the decorative layer so that it is permeated by the resin material. For example, if the decorative layer is made of a ceramic material, this brushing and / or grinding step aims to remove the backwash and / or texture from the underside of the decorative layer. In this way, any decorative layer can be used to manufacture the flooring element without needing to manufacture a specific decorative layer for that flooring element; for example, it is not necessary to manufacture a ceramic tile without the backwash and texture on the underside. As previously described, the support layer may comprise edges provided with coupling elements. Therefore, according to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the step of providing the support layer may comprise the step of providing a support layer comprising edges provided with coupling elements; that is, the coupling elements are provided in the support layer during a separate process. Alternatively, the method for manufacturing the floor element may comprise a step of providing the coupling elements at the edges of the support layer. This step of providing the coupling elements may comprise milling, molding, or other techniques.Furthermore, this step of providing the coupling elements can be carried out before or after a step of placing the decorative layer over the support layer, for example, before the step of providing the resin or after the pressing step. The step of providing the resin comprises applying an uncured resin to at least one surface of the decorative layer and / or the backing layer. The resin material can be provided by lamination, spraying, curtain coating, or other techniques. According to one embodiment of the invention, the resin material is applied to the upper surface of the backing layer. According to an alternative embodiment, the resin material is applied during multiple intermediate steps; for example, a first quantity of resin is applied to the upper surface of the backing layer in a first intermediate step, and a second quantity of resin is applied to the lower surface of the decorative layer in a second intermediate step. This solution is particularly preferred for manufacturing flooring elements where the intermediate layer comprises a reinforcing element, for example, a fiber.In fact, in this case, a larger amount of resin may be necessary, and multiple steps to provide the resin may be ideal to ensure proper bonding between layers, embedding of the reinforcing element, and permeation of the decorative layer. The step of supplying the resin may include mixing its components if the resin is a two-component resin, such as a two-component epoxy. This mixing step can be performed during, i.e., simultaneously with, or shortly before the step of applying the uncured resin. In fact, the curing of the resin is often activated by mixing its components, which consequently increases the resin's viscosity. Therefore, it is preferable to delay the start of the curing reaction as much as possible to facilitate the spread of the resin over the surfaces of the layers and improve the permeation of the decorative layer. For example, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the resin is applied by spraying, and the components are mixed during spraying, for example, substantially in conjunction with a nozzle of the spraying equipment. Preferably, during the pressing step, a pressure of at least 350 kg / m², and more preferably at least 370 kg / m², is applied to the layers. These values ​​have been found to be optimal for ensuring that the resin permeates the decorative layer. Furthermore, these values ​​have been found to be optimal for allowing the resin to achieve 100% coverage of the underside of the decorative layer, because in one embodiment, the resin is applied according to a pattern and then spread during this pressing step. In addition, the inventors have discovered that by maintaining the pressure for a prolonged pressing time, it is possible to improve the permeation of the decorative layer; for example, it is possible to achieve a greater depth of penetration. Therefore, according to a preferred aspect of the invention, during the pressing step, the pressure is maintained for a pressing time of more than 1 second, preferably more than 10 seconds, for example, 30 seconds.This pressing time has been found to be optimal for allowing the resin to achieve satisfactory coverage of the underside of the decorative layer, preferably 100% coverage of this underside if the resin is applied according to a pattern. Furthermore, especially in the case of epoxy resin, this pressing time is sufficient for the resin to begin curing so that the decorative layer and the backing layer adhere at least partially to each other, preventing slippage between them during transport of the flooring elements after pressing. It should be noted that while 100% resin coverage of the lower surface of the decorative layer is desirable, it is crucial to prevent the resin from overflowing beyond the edges of the layer itself, and more preferably, from spilling onto the mating elements. If resin spills onto the mating element, the connection between the floor elements can be negatively affected. To prevent this unwanted spillage, several measures can be taken. One preferred measure is that the decorative layer and / or the support layer may include one or more grooves, respectively open on the lower or upper surface, designed to collect a portion of the resin. If these grooves are provided in the decorative layer, they are located near its edge.If these grooves are provided in the decorative layer, they can be made in a portion of the top surface intended to be covered by the decorative layer, for example, near the edges of the decorative layer when it is placed on the support layer. In this case, preferably, the grooves are parallel to these edges of the decorative layer. Alternatively, or additionally, they can be made in a portion of the top surface that extends beyond the edges of the decorative layer. In either case, preferably, the grooves are parallel to these edges of the decorative layer. Preferably, these grooves extend continuously along these edges. The pressing step can be carried out in any manner suitable for applying pressure to the decorative layer and / or the support layer in order to facilitate resin penetration into the decorative layer. According to one embodiment of the invention, the pressing step can be a static pressing step where the layers are fed into a mold of a static press and subjected to a predetermined pressure by a punch of the press. In this way, it is possible to maintain the pressure for the predetermined pressing time to enhance permeation of the decorative layer. According to an alternative embodiment, the pressing step can be a lamination step where the layers are fed into lamination equipment, for example, under a lamination roll or belt, or between a pair of lamination rolls, and subjected to a predetermined pressure.Since lamination is a continuous process, it's possible to accelerate the overall manufacturing method while simultaneously applying sufficient pressure to the layers for permeation of the decorative layer. During lamination, the pressing time depends on the layer feed rate; therefore, the feed rate can be regulated to accelerate the process while ensuring sufficient pressing time. Preferably, the method comprises a step of storing the floor elements for a storage time to allow the resin to cure at least partially before it is packaged, transported, and / or used in a floor covering. Preferably, the storage time is such that it allows the resin to cure to at least 70%, preferably 85%, and more preferably to cure completely. For example, this storage time is at least 0.5 h, preferably more than 1 h, for example, 2 h. It is also observed that the feature that a floor element can comprise coupling elements according to the first possibility on a first pair of opposite edges, and coupling elements according to the second possibility on a second pair of opposite edges, forms an independent inventive concept independently of other features of the floor element.Therefore, according to its sixth independent aspect, the invention relates to a floor element comprising a decorative layer made of a ceramic material, and a support layer arranged beneath the decorative layer, wherein the support layer on at least two pairs of opposite edges comprises coupling elements configured to perform a mechanical coupling with coupling elements of adjacent floor elements, wherein the first coupling elements on a first pair of edges are configured to couple to the coupling elements of adjacent floor elements by means of a tilting movement about a horizontal axis parallel to the respective edges, and wherein the second coupling elements on a second pair of edges are configured to couple to the coupling elements of adjacent floor elements by means of a downward translational direction of the respective edges relative to each other.This combination of different types of coupling elements is particularly advantageous with heavy decorative layers, such as ceramic tiles or similar materials. In fact, once the first coupling elements are engaged, simply placing the floor element in a horizontal position is sufficient to mechanically engage the second coupling elements without the need for hammering or tapping the floor element itself. This also applies if the second coupling elements deform during assembly, as the weight of the decorative layer may be enough to cause this deformation. Once the first coupling elements are connected, the user will feel as if they are simply dropping the floor elements into place to complete the assembly, as no further effort is required.It is observed that the floor element according to the sixth independent aspect may comprise one or more of the characteristics described in relation to the first independent aspect. It is noted that, within the scope of this sixth independent aspect, the preferred modality comprises a decorative layer made of ceramic; however, it is noted that this sixth aspect can be advantageously applied with decorative layers made of any relatively heavy material, such as natural stone, quartz, artificial stone, concrete, glass, or glass-ceramic material. It is also noted that this sixth aspect can be advantageously applied with decorative layers having a density, expressed as surface weight, of at least 10 kg / m², preferably above 15 kg / m², for example, above 19 kg / m², regardless of the material forming the decorative layer. The inventors have also discovered that the coupling of floor elements according to the sixth independent aspect is further simplified if, in the coupled condition, the first coupling elements are connected with a play, for example, a horizontal play. In fact, while the weight of the decorative layer simplifies the coupling of the second coupling elements once the first coupling elements are coupled, it complicates this coupling of the first coupling elements, and in particular, it complicates the maneuverability of the floor element. Therefore, the play aids this coupling at the first pair of edges. This effect is further enhanced if the play is greater than 0.01 mm, preferably greater than 0.03 mm. Moreover, this play is preferably less than 0.10 mm, for example, less than 0.08 mm.In particular, this effect is further enhanced if the game is such that the first coupling elements can be coupled together without deformation. It should also be noted that the idea of ​​the flooring element comprising a support layer made of rigid PVC, to improve the thermal stability of the flooring element, constitutes an independent inventive idea, independent of the presence of other features of the flooring element itself, in particular the presence of the intermediate layer that permeates a lower surface of the decorative layer. According to its seventh independent aspect, the invention relates to a flooring element comprising a decorative layer made of a ceramic material and a support layer arranged beneath this decorative layer, the feature being that this support layer is made of rigid PVC. It is noted that the flooring element according to the seventh independent aspect may comprise one or more of the features described in relation to the first independent aspect. It should be noted that these resin-collecting grooves may constitute an inventive idea independently of the presence of other features of the flooring element. Therefore, according to an eighth independent aspect, the invention relates to a flooring element comprising a decorative layer, a support layer, and an intermediate layer positioned between the decorative layer and the support layers, wherein the intermediate layer comprises a resin, with the feature that the decorative layer and / or the support layer comprise one or more grooves adapted for collecting a portion of the resin. It is noted that the flooring element according to this eighth independent aspect may comprise one or more of the features described in relation to any other aspect of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES With the intention of better showing the features of the invention, the following, as an example without any limiting character, describes several preferred embodiments with reference to the attached figures, where: Figure 1 shows a top view of one embodiment of a floor element of the invention; Figure 2 on a larger scale shows a cross-section along line ll-ll of Figure 1; Figure 3 on a larger scale shows a view over area F3 indicated in Figure 2; Figure 4 on a larger scale shows a cross-section along line IV-IV of Figure 1; Figure 5 on a smaller scale shows a top plan view of a floor covering comprising a plurality of floor elements of Figure 1; Figure 6 on a larger scale shows a cross-section along line VI-VI of Figure 5; Figure 7 on a larger scale shows a view over area F7 indicated in Figure 6; Figure 8 on a larger scale shows a cross-section along the Vill-VIII line of Figure 5; Figure 9 on a larger scale shows a view over area F9 indicated in Figure 8; Figure 10 shows some steps of a method for manufacturing a floor element. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Figure 1 shows a top view of one embodiment of a floor element 1 according to the invention. The floor element 1 comprises a decorative layer 2 placed above a support layer 3. As illustrated, floor element 1 comprises an elongated rectangular shape. Preferably, floor element 1 comprises a surface area of ​​less than 1.5 square meters, preferably less than 1 square meter, and more preferably less than 0.4 square meters. For example, the decorative layer 2 comprises edges having a maximum length L of less than 1.5 m, preferably less than 0.9 m. cj ιηηη / ι ζηζ / Β / γ The decorative layer 1 has an upper surface 4 comprising a decoration 5. The decoration 5 can be provided with a variety of textures, designs, and colors. In the polished example, the decoration simulates a wood pattern comprising wood grain and scales. Preferably, the decoration 5 is formed at least partially by a print 6. The print 6 is preferably made by digital printing, such as inkjet printing, although screen printing, gravure, flexography, or offset printing are not excluded. Figure 2 on a larger scale shows a cross-section along line ll-ll of Figure 1. According to the illustrated example, the decorative layer 2 comprises a body 7 made of a ceramic material, e.g., red-body ceramic or porcelain. The decorative layer 2 comprises a base coating 8 that at least partially covers the upper surface of the body 7, for example, comprising at least one varnish. The base coating 8 is adapted to receive the decoration 5 on its upper surface, for example, it is adapted to receive the print 6 on its upper surface. The base coating 8 can be white, beige, brown, or any color suitable for receiving the decoration 7 on its upper surface. The decorative layer 2 further comprises a protective coating 9 that at least partially covers the upper surface of the body 7, for example, comprising at least one varnish. The protective coating 9 is adapted to be placed over the decoration 5 and is transparent or translucent. Figure 2 also shows that the decorative layer 2 has a thickness T1 between 4 and 15 mm, for example 6 mm, preferably above 7 mm, for example 8 or 10 mm. The support layer 3, according to the example, is made of a polymeric material, preferably a thermoplastic such as PVC. In the preferred embodiment, the support layer is made of rigid PVC. In the context of this description, “rigid” means that the support layer, taken alone, bends under its own weight by less than 10 cm per meter, and even better, by less than 5 cm per meter. The support layer 3 may also comprise a high quantity of filler materials, such as calcium carbonate, for example, more than 30% or more than 60% by weight of these filler materials. Furthermore, according to the preferred embodiment, the support layer 3 is made of rigid PVC having a flexural modulus between 1.5 and 3.5 GPa, for example, approximately 2.6 GPa. The support layer 3 may also have a flexural strength between 60 and 90 MPa, for example, approximately 76 MPa. Additionally, the support layer 3 may have a compressive strength between 40 and 70 MPa, for example, approximately 56 MPa. Preferably, the support layer 3 has a coefficient of thermal expansion between 20 µm / m² / °C and 85 µm / m² / °C, preferably between 40 µm / m² / °C and 60 µm / m² / °C. Furthermore, the support layer 3 preferably has a thickness T2 between 2 and 7 mm, preferably below 6 mm, more preferably approximately 4 mm or less. Figure 2 also shows that the support layer 3 comprises longitudinal edges 10 provided with first coupling elements 11,12 configured to perform a mechanical coupling with coupling elements 11,12 of an adjacent floor element 1. In the illustrated examples, the coupling elements 11,12 comprise male and female parts positioned on opposite longitudinal edges 10. The first coupling elements 11,12 of the longitudinal edges 10 are configured to couple with each other by a tilting motion around a horizontal axis parallel to the longitudinal edges 10. The male and female parts are respectively shaped as a tongue 11 and a groove 12, wherein the tongue 11 projects outwards beyond its respective longitudinal edge 10 in a horizontal direction X and the groove 12 projects inwards with respect to the respective longitudinal edge 10 in this horizontal direction. The support layer 3 extends beyond the longitudinal edges 26 of the decorative layer 2. In the example, the support layer 3 comprises upper longitudinal edges 27 that extend beyond the longitudinal edge 26 of the decorative layer 2 by a distance D1. This distance D1 is equal on both opposite longitudinal edges 26 of the decorative layer 2. Figure 2 further shows that the floor element 1 comprises an intermediate layer 13 positioned between the decorative layer 2 and the support layer 3. The intermediate layer 13 comprises a resin material, for example, a thermosetting resin or a thermoplastic resin. Examples of thermosetting resins are epoxy, polyurethane, cyanoacrylate, or acrylic resin. Examples of thermoplastic resins are hot melt, polyester thermoplastic, vinyl, etc. Preferably, the resin is a rigid resin. In particular, according to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the intermediate layer comprises an epoxy resin. It is also preferred that the epoxy be a two-component resin, i.e., a thermosetting resin obtained by curing a mixture of two components, i.e., a resin and a hardener, at a low temperature (e.g., room temperature). The resin preferably comprises a tensile strength between 50 and 90 MPa, more preferably between 60 and 80 MPa, for example, 75 MPa. Furthermore, the resin preferably comprises a compressive strength between 90 and 130 MPa, more preferably between 100 and 120 MPa, for example, 110 MPa. It is also preferable that the resin exhibit a hardness value of at least 50 measured on a Shore D scale. As illustrated, the intermediate layer 13 covers 100 percent of the lower surface of the decorative layer 2. The resin is preferably provided on the lower surface of the decorative layer 2 in an amount above 150 g / m2, more preferably above 200 g / m2, for example, 220 g / m2. In the preferred example illustrated in Figure 2, the intermediate layer 13 is in direct contact with the top surface of the support layer 3 so that it acts as a glue between the decorative layer 2 and the support layer 3. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the support layer 3 comprises grooves 50 adapted to collect a portion of the resin from the intermediate layer 13 in case of overflow beyond the edges 26 of the decorative layer 2, in order to prevent this resin from overflowing onto the coupling elements 11, 12. In this embodiment, this groove 50 is provided in the portion of the support layer 3 that extends beyond the edges 26 of the decorative layer 2. Furthermore, these grooves 50 extend parallel and continuously to the edges 26 of the decorative layer 2. For the sake of simplicity, the grooves 50 are not illustrated in other figures of this application; however, they may be present in any of the embodiments, for example, they may also be present at the short edges of the floor element 1. Figure 3 on a larger scale shows a view over area F3 indicated in Figure 2. As illustrated in Figure 3, the decorative layer 2, more specifically body 7 thereof, comprises, at least in correspondence with its lower surface, an adapted open porosity 14 permeated by the resin of the decorative layer 2 itself. Therefore, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the decorative layer 2 comprises an apparent porosity between 0.1% and 10% determined in accordance with ASTM C373, more preferably between 2% and 8%, for example, 6%. Furthermore, the decorative layer may preferably have an open pore volume 14 between 0.01 cc (cubic centimeter) and 1 cc, more preferably between 0.10 cc and 0.90 cc, for example, 0.60 cc. Therefore, in order to flow properly into these open pores 14, the resin comprises a viscosity at 202C below 1000 Pas, preferably below 800 Pas, more preferably below 600 Pas, for example, approximately 400 Pas. Within the scope of the invention, viscosity means the viscosity of the uncured resin, for example, the viscosity of the mixture of the two components before the completion of curing, i.e., during the so-called pot life. Figure 4 shows on a larger scale a cross-section along line IV-IV of Figure 1. According to the modality, the support layer 3 comprises cj ιηηη / ι ζηζ / Β / γ transverse edges 15 provided with second coupling elements 16, 17 configured to perform a mechanical coupling with second coupling elements 16,17 of an adjacent floor element 1. In the illustrated examples, the second coupling elements 16, 17 are different from the first coupling elements 11, 12 of the longitudinal edges 10. The second coupling elements 16, 17 of the transverse edges 15 are configured to couple with each other by a translational movement along a substantially vertical direction. In the illustrated examples, this second coupling element 16, 17 is configured to couple by a translational movement in a downward, for example, vertical Y direction. The support layer 3 extends beyond the transverse edges 28 of the decorative layer 2. In the example, the support layer 3 comprises upper transverse edges 29 that extend beyond the transverse edge 28 of the decorative layer 2 by a distance D2. This distance D2 is equal on both opposite edges 28 of the decorative layer 2. Furthermore, in this preferred example, this distance D2 is equal to the distance D1. For example, these distances D1 and D2 are greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 0.75 mm, for example, 1.5 mm. Figure 5 is a top plan view of a floor covering 18 comprising a plurality of floor elements 1 coupled by means of the first coupling elements 11, 12 along the longitudinal edges 10 and by means of the second coupling elements 16, 17 along the transverse edges 15. Figure 6 on a larger scale shows a cross-section along line VI-VI of Figure 5. The floor covering 18 comprises a grout 19 that fills an intermediate distance I separating the decorative layers 2 from the floor elements 1. According to the illustrated example, the intermediate distance I is twice the distance D1 between the top edge of the support layer 3 and the edge of the decorative layer 3. Grout 19 is preferably made of a polymeric material. Grout 19 can be either flexible or rigid. A flexible grout 19 might be, for example, a silicone-based grout, while a rigid grout might be, for example, an epoxy-based or cement-based grout. Other examples of polymeric grouts include polyurethane-based and acrylic-based grouts. Figure 6 further shows a section of the mechanical coupling between the first coupling elements 11, 12 along a plane transverse to the longitudinal edges 10. This mechanical coupling between the first coupling elements 11,12 is described in detail with the help of Figure 7. Figure 7 on a larger scale shows a view over the area F7 indicated in Figure 6. According to the preferred example illustrated in Figure 7, the tongue 11 comprises a horizontally extending lip 20 and a downwardly projecting hump 21. The groove 12 has a horizontal slit 22, to receive the lip 20 of the tongue 11, and an upwardly facing hollow portion 23, to receive the hump 21 of the tongue 11, so that the tongue 11 can be fitted into the groove 12. In the coupled condition shown in Figure 7, the upper edges 27 of the support layers 3 come into contact with each other, thus forming a first set of first locking surfaces 24 that limit the mutual movement of these floor elements 1 in a horizontal direction X perpendicular to the coupled longitudinal edges 10. Figure 7 also shows that in this coupled condition, lip 20 is received by the slot 22. The upper surface of lip 20 comes into contact with an upper wall of the slot 22, thus forming a first set of second locking surfaces 25 that limit the mutual movement of these floor elements 1 in a substantially vertical Y direction. It is observed that a horizontal inoperative space S1 is established between the tip of lip 20 and the lower part of the slot 22. In addition, a vertical inoperative space S2 is established between the lower surface of lip 20 and the slot 22. The downward-projecting hump 21 of the tongue 11 is received by the hollow portion 23 of the groove 12. The lower surface of the downward-projecting hump 21 comes into contact with this hollow portion 23 so that a second set of second locking surfaces 25 is formed. In other words, the lower surface of the tongue 16 comes into contact with the groove 12 exclusively in correspondence with the downward-projecting hump 21. In the coupled condition, of figure 7, between the protruding hump 21 and the hollow portion 23 a horizontal clearance P is formed which allows a small horizontal movement of the tongue 11 in the groove 12. This clearance P and these small horizontal movements are limited by a set of first contact surfaces that can be formed between the protruding hump 21 and the hollow portion 23. Preferably, this clearance P is greater than 0.01 mm, preferably greater than 0.03 mm. Furthermore, this clearance P is preferably less than 0.10 mm, for example less than 0.08 mm. It is observed that in the coupled condition, the tongue 11 and the groove 12 are in an undeformed state. Furthermore, all the tilting movement that allows the coupling between the tongue 11 and the groove 12 occurs without deformation of the first coupling elements 11,12. In fact, thanks to the clearance P and the non-operating spaces S1, S2, the coupling between the tongue 11 and the groove 12 is significantly simplified. Figure 8 on a larger scale shows a cross-section along the cj innn / i ζπζ / β / υ line Vill-VIII of Figure 5. Figure 8 shows a section of the mechanical coupling between the second coupling elements 16, 17 along a plane transverse to the transverse edges 15. This mechanical coupling between the second coupling elements 16,17 is described in detail with the help of Figure 9. Figure 9 on a larger scale shows a view over area F9 indicated in Figure 8. The second coupling elements 16, 17 comprise that the downward-facing upper hook-shaped portion 16 is located on a transverse edge 15 and the upward-facing lower hook-shaped portion 17 is located on the opposite edge 15. The lower hook-shaped portion 17 defines an upward-facing cavity forming a female portion, while the upper hook-shaped portion 16 defines a downward-facing lip forming a male portion. Once in a coupled position, the downward-facing lip and upward-facing cavity form the first locking surface 24 to limit mutual movement of the floor elements 1 in a horizontal Z direction perpendicular to the transverse edge 15. Furthermore, both the upper hook-shaped portion 16 and the lower hook-shaped portion 17 comprise 30 recessed portions such that, in the coupled condition, second locking surfaces 25 are formed to limit the mutual movement of the floor elements 1 in the vertical Y direction. More specifically, two sets of these second locking surfaces 25 are formed, for example, on opposite sides of the male and female portions. Preferably, the lower hook-shaped portion 17 comprises a flexible lever portion 31 configured to deform by coupling with the upper hook-shaped portion 17 so that by this deformation the coupling of the recessed portions 30 is possible. Figure 10 shows some steps of a method for manufacturing a floor element. The method comprises a first step S1 for providing the decorative layer 2. In step S1, the decorative layer 2 is provided in a resin application station 40, where the uncured resin material R, for example, is provided according to a pattern onto a lower surface of the decorative layer 2. The uncured resin R preferably comprises a viscosity at 202°C below 1000 Pas, preferably below 800 Pas, more preferably below 600 Pas, for example, approximately 400 Pas. It is noted that in the resin application station 40, the decorative layer is placed with the upper surface, comprising the decoration 6, facing downwards. Then, in step S2, the decorative layer 2 is conveyed to a placement station 41, where the support layer 3 is provided. The support layer 2 is placed under the lower surface decorative layer 3, thus forming a semi-finished sandwich 42. Preferably, at this placement station 41, the decorative layer 2 and the support layer 2 are properly centered with respect to each other. Subsequently, in step S3, the semi-finished sandwich 42 is conveyed to a pressing station 43, where layers 2 and 3 are pressed together to form the floor element 1, allowing the resin material to permeate the pores of the ceramic material of the decorative layer 2 and form the intermediate layer 13. Preferably, the pressure is maintained for a pressing time of at least 1 second, preferably 30 seconds, so that the uncured resin R can flow, covering at least 80%, preferably 100%, of the lower surface of the decorative layer 2. This pressing time is also necessary to allow the uncured resin R to permeate the decorative layer 2. Preferably, during step S4, a pressure of at least 350 kg / m² is applied to the layers. Then, in step S4, the pressed floor element 1 is transported to a storage station 44 where it is held for a predetermined time to allow the resin R to continue curing before it is packaged, transported, and / or used in a floor covering. Preferably, the storage time is such that it allows the resin R to cure to at least 70%, preferably 85%, and more preferably to cure completely. For example, this storage time is at least 0.5 h, preferably more than 1 h, for example, 2 h. The present invention is in no way limited to the modalities described above, but these floor elements can be made according to different variants without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A floor element for forming a floor covering, wherein this floor element comprises a decorative layer made of a ceramic material and a support layer arranged beneath this decorative layer, wherein the support layer comprises edges provided with coupling elements configured to perform a mechanical coupling with coupling elements of an adjacent floor element and wherein the floor element comprises an intermediate layer having a resin material permeating a lower surface of the decorative layer.

2. The floor element according to claim 1, wherein the resin material comprises epoxy.

3. The floor element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the resin material has a viscosity at 20 2C below 1000 Pas.

4. The floor element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate layer covers 80 percent or more of the lower surface of the decorative layer.

5. The floor element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate layer comprises a resin content of at least 150 g / m2.

6. The floor element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate layer is an adhesive layer that bonds the decorative layer and the support layer.

7. The floor element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the decorative layer has an apparent porosity between 0.1% and 10% measured according to ASTM C373.

8. The floor element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the decorative layer has an open pore volume comprising between 0.01 (cubic centimeters) cc and 1 cc measured in accordance with ASTM C373.

9. The floor element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the decorative layer comprises a red-bodied ceramic tile.

10. The floor element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the decorative layer comprises a varnished upper surface.

11. The floor element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support layer comprises rigid PVC. cj innn / i znz / B / v 12. The floor element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support layer has a flexural modulus between 1.5 and 3.5 GPa.

13. The floor element according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support layer has a thickness below 6 mm.

14. A floor covering comprising a plurality of floor elements according to any of the preceding claims.

15. A method for manufacturing a floor element, comprising the steps of: - providing a decorative layer made of a ceramic material; - providing a support layer; - providing a resin material to bond the decorative layer and the support layer; - pressing the layers together to form the floor element so that the resin material permeates the ceramic layer.