what are lab countertops made out of

Here are a few of the most common materials used to construct lab countertops:

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Full Answer

What materials are used in laboratory countertops?

Laboratory countertops are American made and available in Phenolic Resin, Epoxy Resin and Stainless Steel. If you have questions about Laboratory Countertops and Sinks, contact one of our Product Specialists at 877.527.5775.

What is epoxy resin countertop made of?

Epoxy resin countertop. Epoxy resin counter tops are made from a mixture of materials then cured as a solid, continuous product. Epoxy resin is a durable and economical choice for many kinds of labs. It is non-porous, water and moisture resistant, and holds up well in wet situations.

What are the different types of countertop materials?

The 7 most commonly used countertop materials for scientific or industrial use are epoxy resin, phenolic resin, stainless steel, maple block (aka butcher block or wood block), solid surface, HDPE, and ESD laminate.

What type of solid surface is best for my lab countertops?

We will work with you to answer these questions and also to determine what type of solid surface is best for your lab’s countertops. The first of the countertop materials to consider is stainless steel, which is commonly used in labs. Stainless steel is resistant to moisture and water, sturdy, and had moderate resistance to fungi and bacteria.

What is chemical laminate?

What is a lab?

What is high pressure laminate?

How is phenolic resin made?

Why do businesses use labs?

Is a lab countertop a long term investment?

Is nickel a good stain resistant material?

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What are old lab benches made of?

Scientific bench tops were originally made of slate, and in many schools and labs you will see that they still use slate tops (or the school happens to be have really old labs and they have never updated them). The main advantages were: They are chemically inert and will not react to chemicals.

What are school lab tables made of?

Solid epoxy resin, which can endure corrosive chemicals and is resistant to heat, moisture, and impact damage, is the standard lab table for most laboratory applications.

Why are lab counters black?

Epoxy Resin Countertops have been the laboratory industry standard for decades. The product is extremely durable and most importantly flame resistant with certain laboratory requirements it is the only option. The color black is standard for epoxy resin, but many other colors are available for a slight upcharge.

What are laboratory bench tops?

The laboratory bench top is a vital surface within the laboratory as it is the primary point-of-contact for chemical attack and heat damage, and our specialists can assist you in analyzing and selecting the perfect work surface material for your application.

What are black science lab tables made of?

Phenolic resin tops are made by taking kraft paper — that heavy brown paper used in shipping — and soaking it in phenolic resin, a petroleum-based chemical. Then the layers are compressed under high heat to make a solid surface, with the benefit of more control over the thickness of the table.

What are black science tables made of?

Phenolic Resin: This material could also be used for science tables or workstations where chemical or heat experiments will be conducted. This material is a composite, thermo-fused under heat and pressure to form a solid black chemical resistant composite throughout the entire thickness of the top.

How do you clean black lab countertops?

Epoxy Resin CountertopsMild soaps, water, vinegar, and household cleaners can be used for regular surface cleaning.Isopropyl alcohol or acetone can be used on tough spots and stains.Remove marring with a soft cloth, dampened (non-abrasive) sponge, or clean rags.More items...•

How do you refinish a science lab table?

Both the primer and the epoxy finish are required to properly refinish your lab tabletop. Tops should be thoroughly cleaned of oil, wax or residue with lacquer thinner. Existing finish should be thoroughly sanded with 80-grit sandpaper to feather-edge any nicks, scratches, etc., and to remove any buildup of residue.

What is Fireslate?

Fireslate, which resembles slate, is made from Portland cement, silica sand, water and fillers.

What is the difference between epoxy resin and phenolic resin?

The primary difference between phenolic resin and epoxy resin countertops is their cost and thermal resistance to prolonged heat exposure above 350°F. Epoxy resin is commonly used in laboratories, and has a high level of heat resistance.

How do you clean phenolic resin countertops?

Phenolic Resin Work Surface Care Acetone, Mineral Spirits or Isopropyl Alcohol should be used (where allowed) to thoroughly clean surfaces. Apply and wipe away with a clean soft rag. Wipe counter top surfaces with the solution of the mild non-abrasive soap and water, wash away soap with clear clean water and wipe dry.

Why is linoleum steel used in making laboratory bench tops?

They are durable, non-porous and hold up very well under harsh and extreme conditions. They are typically the choice around sinks and heavy moisture. This is the most durable of all the other materials on our list and made for the most extreme lab conditions.

What are the desks in Labs called?

Lab tables are an essential component of every lab, but understanding their purpose and why each laboratory needs them is critical when deciding which science table you should purchase.

What are laboratory tables called?

Lab bench, or workbench, are names that are often used interchangeably. Benches provide the work space and surface to conduct tests and procedures. Many also have base cabinet storage options.

What is laboratory table?

Benches and tables designed to safely perform laboratory tasks, and handling of reagents and samples. Products may include specific finishes that are corrosion resistant, vibration resistant, and can be mobile units.

What is the use of laboratory table?

It can be used as a place to set equipment and data or for books and other research materials. A simple lab table with storage is perfect for those who want to use their lab table as both an experiment surface and as a storage space for tools and other equipment.

What is the best countertop for labs?

High-pressure plastic laminate countertops are another available option for labs but these countertops do not perform or last as well as phenolic resin or epoxy resin. Plastic laminate is a combination of wood fibers, phenolic resin, and melamine. It has a very low chemical resistance and does not hold up well against acids, heat or moisture. The biggest advantage of these countertops is the budget-friendly price. Plastic laminate countertops are a good choice for dry working conditions such as technology labs.

What is a laboratory counter?

Laboratory counters are your workspace. They hold your equipment and projects and tools. You need counter space for a writing surface, to catch spills, even to sit on… maybe. Countertops are available in a stunning array of materials, composites, finishes and costs. Because each

What is a phenolic resin countertop?

Phenolic resin countertop. Phenolic Resin counter tops are lightweight, hard, durable and highly chemical resistant. They are oil and moisture resistant and do not support the growth of most bacteria and fungus.

What can a lab design professional do?

A knowledgeable lab design professional can help you make the choice that is right for your laboratory, your work, and your budget. Remember, Lab Furniture and Fume Hoods offers free design services. We can help you plan your lab and choose materials that will create a laboratory space that will hold up to the rigors of your work and last for years and years.

Can you see countertops in a lab?

You can’t always see the countertops but that doesn’t make them less important. laboratory is different from the next, it is important to understand the benefits and strengths of each type of material. Below are a handful of the most popular choices for laboratory countertop materials. When designing your lab it’s important to do your research ...

Is stainless steel good for labs?

However, in the right situation with consistent care stainless steel will last and look beautiful, too. Stainless steel is a good choice for biological science labs, microbiology biomedical, pharma ceutical, medical, and hospital labs. Learn More.

Is laminate countertop good for dry conditions?

The biggest advantage of these countertops is the budget-friendly price. Plastic laminate countertops are a good choice for dry working conditions such as technology labs.

Phenolic Resin Countertops

Phenolic resin countertops come in both a standard and chemical grade type. Phenolic resin, in general, provides many benefits for your lab setting. Standard phenolic resin is best suited for light-duty work surfaces, shelving units, desktops, doors, and other areas of the laboratory that aren’t exposed to harsh elements or chemicals.

Epoxy Resin Countertops

Laboratory epoxy resin countertops come in a wide variety of colors, thicknesses, and size specifications. Laboratory epoxy resin countertops are highly resistant to various harsh chemicals, making them a great choice for busy lab settings. Additionally, epoxy resin is highly durable, moisture resistant, non-porous, and easy to clean.

Stainless Steel Countertops

Stainless steel laboratory countertops continue to be one of the most popular choices due to the aesthetically pleasing appeal and durability of stainless steel. Stainless steel laboratory countertops are sterile, easy to keep clean, and highly durable.

High Pressure Plastic Laminate Countertops

High pressure plastic laminate countertops are a popular choice because they are attractive, affordable, easy to clean, and simple to install. In spite of being made of plastic, high pressure plastic laminate countertops provide excellent durability, resist wear and tear, and don’t absorb bothersome odor or chemical residues.

How to Choose the Right Countertops for Your Lab

As the owner of a successful laboratory setting, you want to provide a lab that meets the needs of the people using it on a daily basis. However, you also want to combine effective functionality with classic good looks. Thankfully, you can achieve both worthy goals by selecting the right types of laboratory countertops for your specific needs.

What are the materials used in a lab?

The 7 most commonly used countertop materials for scientific or industrial use are epoxy resin, phenolic resin, stainless steel, maple block (aka butcher block or wood block), solid surface, HDPE, and ESD laminate. Due to the use of caustic reagents and ...

What is the best material to use for lab work benches?

Phenolic resin is arguably the best material one can use for lab workbenches that need a high degree of resistance. If dealing with highly caustic reagents such as phosphoric acid or sulphuric acid, phenolic is an excellent choice. Another major benefit of phenolic resin is its low cost and ease of procurement.

What are the three specialty materials used in laboratory work benches?

Outside of the big three for laboratory workbenches (epoxy, phenolic, and stainless steel), there are a few other specialty materials that can be found in the sciences and industry.

What is the key to a successful laboratory workbench project?

Choosing appropriate surfaces based on the needs of researchers is the key to a successful laboratory workbench project.

What is a maple block countertop?

Maple block countertops, also known as woodblock or butcher block, are a sturdy and long-lasting material. Over time woodblock tables will succumb to scratches and burns but will last for more than enough time to get your money’s worth.

Can epoxy table tops be scratched?

Unlike its counterpart phenolic resin, epoxy resin table#N#tops are easily scratched and mars. This is particularly problematic in school settings where graffiti is common, and can pose problems if moving heavy equipment or metal instrumentation on the surface.

Is epoxy resin good for labs?

Epoxy resin is sturdy, durable, and chemical resistant to most common laboratory reagents. It is easy to clean and is most commonly supplied in a sleek black finish.

What to consider when making a countertop for a lab?

Things to consider are whether you will need countertops that are resistant to heat or chemicals, or that have antifungal properties. We will work with you to answer these questions and also to determine what type of solid surface is best for your lab’s countertops.

What is the best countertop for a lab?

The first of the countertop materials to consider is stainless steel , which is commonly used in labs. Stainless steel is resistant to moisture and water, sturdy, and had moderate resistance to fungi and bacteria.

What is the phone number for a laboratory sink?

If you have questions about Laboratory Countertops and Sinks, contact one of our Product Specialists at 877.527.5775.

What happens if you install a wrong countertop?

Installing the wrong countertops can cause problems for your employees and the materials that you’re working with on that surface. Let us help you determine what kind of work surfaces you need for your laboratory. The first step in the process is to consider what kind of work will be done in the lab. Things to consider are whether you will need ...

Is laminate resistant to chemicals?

However, chemical resistant laminate, which is made from paper encased by chemicals, is resistant to chemicals. High-pressure laminate adds a decorative look and is inexpensive.

Is epoxy resin good for labs?

It is sturdy and flame resistant, which makes it a good material for labs that perform heavy industrial and chemical testing.

What are the old counter tops made of?

The old ones here are slate. The newer ones are some sort of wood covered with epoxy. You can probably Google 'lab counter tops' to find out exactly want they are made of.

Can soapstone be used for lab tables?

Yes, soapstone would be the material of choice for academic and professional lab table applications, especially where there is a fixed installation incorporating plumbing, sinks, chemical exposures, etc.

Is soapstone still used in the 80s?

From the 80s still probably soapstone especially if its from a school or such even though they were out there the synthetics weren't received well with good reason they didn't hold up all that well.

How are phenolic resin tops made?

Phenolic resin tops are made by taking kraft paper — that heavy brown paper used in shipping — and soaking it in phenolic resin, a petroleum-based chemical. Then the layers are compressed under high heat to make a solid surface, with the benefit of more control over the thickness of the table.

What are the two types of resin tables?

As far as I can tell, there are only two main types of tables — phenolic resin and epoxy resin . Phenolic resin tops are made by taking kraft paper — that heavy brown paper used in shipping — and soaking it in phenolic resin, a petroleum-based chemical. Then the layers are compressed under high heat to make a solid surface, with the benefit of more control over the thickness of the table.

Why do labs look the same?

As far as why all labs look the same, with the black countertops and the wood shelving, Letitia Saunders, a lab manager in the biological sciences building, said her theory is it’s because of real wood’s durability in the face of clumsy young scientists.

What Colors do Corian Countertops Come in?

Corian countertops come in over 100 color and pattern options. When Corian countertops were first released, they were limited to a few neutral color options but with the addition of dyes and keeping up with modern décor designs, there are now many options to match.

Where Can You Buy Corian Countertops?

Corian countertops can be purchased wherever there is a DuPont retailer including (but not limited to):

How Do You Clean Corian Countertops?

With these care instructions, Corian countertops are easy to keep clean. Because the surface is non-porous it is not easily stained making cleanup an easy task. You should be careful to avoid overly harsh cleaners as they can discolor the Corian surface.

Are Corian Countertops Out of Style?

While some home designers believe Corian countertops are outdated and better replaced by options like granite and quartz, others still see their vast popularity. Corian countertops were only available in select colors in the past which became too commonplace and boring however with the release of over 100 color and pattern options, Corian remains versatile, customizable, and easily matched to any home design.

What is chemical laminate?

Chemical laminate is made by applying a melamine resin over decorative surface paper, which is then bonded to a core of kraft papers impregnated with phenolic resin . The result is a decorative worksurface that is functional, durable and highly resistant to chemicals.

What is a lab?

Labs performing experiments and tests that use harsh chemicals, open flames and instruments that create extreme heat and require worksurfaces that are durable, resistant to the most aggressive chemicals, and easy to clean and maintain.

What is high pressure laminate?

High pressure laminate is made by applying a melamine resin over decorative surface paper, which is then bonded to a core of kraft papers impregnated with phenolic resin. The result is a decorative worksurface that is functional and durable.

How is phenolic resin made?

Phenolic resin countertops are manufactured by layering natural kraft paper that has been saturated with phenolic resin and processed under high heat . The result is one solid, lightweight countertop that is durable and long-lasting.

Why do businesses use labs?

Businesses are using labs for many applications these days...education, inspection, research and development, technology, and testing to name a few. One of the biggest challenges for businesses today is that they are constantly changing. So, you not only have to choose lab countertops for today’s usage, but also future possible uses.

Is a lab countertop a long term investment?

Lab countertops should be a long-term investment. It is important to consider the type of work you are doing in your lab now and anticipate what you might do in the future. Budget is always important, but your choice must be able to stand the test of time and the rigors of your work. Topics: Laboratory , Work Surfaces.

Is nickel a good stain resistant material?

Chromium makes it resistant to rust and corrosion, while nickel makes it stain and heat resistant. Stainless steel has a non-porous surface, which means that no liquids or substances can penetrate into the material at all. Bacteria, mold and other common household germs don’t stand a chance with stainless.