A variety of work surfaces are available for today's modern laboratory. Three of the more successful choices include epoxy resin, high-pressure plastic laminates and stainless steel. The best decision for your laboratory balances cost, quality and design.

EPOXY RESIN has become the primary laboratory surfacing material. This popularity is no surprise. Epoxy Resin is attractive, durable, reasonably priced and available in Black, Gray or White.

SOLID PHENOLIC is a newer countertop product consisting of layered phenolic-coated paper cured under heat and pressure. It is similar to epoxy resin; however, it is much lighter and easier to manipulate during production and installation. It is available in several colors.

HIGH PRESSURE PLASTIC LAMINATE is manufactured by combining wood-fiber with phenolic resins. The outer layer is melamine and available in an endless array of colors and styles. Plastic laminate countertops do not offer the chemical resistance and durability of epoxy resin. However, this product is a good fit for many applications and is the most budget friendly.

STAINLESS STEEL countertops are best suited for special applications. They are available in several grades and finishes - the most common of which are type 304 or 316 brushed satin. Stainless counters represent a substantial investment and require ongoing maintenance.

ADDITIONAL OPTIONS - Additional options include polypropylene, ceramic, ceramic tile, solid surface and porcylene countertops. Please contact our offices for additional information.

MATERIAL PROPERTIES

EPOXY RESIN
Cost: Medium
Moisture Resistance: Excellent
Acid Resistance: Excellent
Solvent resistance: Excellent
Stain resistance: Good pending color
Heat resistance: Good
Abrasion resistance: Excellent
Porosity: Excellent
Conductivity: Low

 
  SOLID PHENOLIC
Price: Medium to High
Moisture Resistance: Excellent
Acid Resistance: Excellent
Solvent resistance: Excellent
Stain resistance: Good pending color
Heat resistance: Good
Abrasion resistance: Good
Porosity: Excellent
Conductivity: Low

HIGH PRESSURE PLASTIC LAMINATE
Price: Low
Moisture Resistance: Good
Acid Resistance: Good
Solvent resistance: Fair
Stain resistance: Fair
Heat resistance: Fair
Abrasion resistance: Good
Porosity: Excellent
Conductivity: Low

 
  STAINLESS STEEL
Price: High
Moisture Resistance: Excellent
Acid Resistance: Fair
Solvent resistance: Excellent
Stain resistance: Excellent
Heat resistance: Excellent
Abrasion resistance: Excellent
Porosity: Excellent
Conductivity: High