How to pick the right Countertop for your Laboratory?

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.

Pricing

If you are looking for a highly chemically resistant countertop at a reasonable price for your science table, this is the material you want to use. It is in the mid range as far as price with only High Pressure Laminate being cheaper. The only downside to this material is that it isn't recommended for use with open flames.

Best Applications

Biological, Chemical, Clinical, and Analytical Labs. Labs performing experiments and tests where results depend on non-contamination and require laboratory work surfaces that are exceptionally chemical resistant, impervious and hygienic

Epoxy resin countertops are made from a mixture of materials and then cured as a solid product. They are durable, non-porous and hold up very well under harsh and extreme conditions. They are typically the choice for stations that have sinks and heavy moisture.

Pricing

This is the most durable of all the other materials on our list and made for the most extreme lab conditions. It is also the most expensive, because of the limited number of manufacturers. The decision to pay the extra price for this material will depend on whether you need the additional heat resistance on your science table and the ability to use open flames on your lab countertops, because it handles that well.

Best Applications

Biological Science, Education, Hospital, Industrial Testing, Medical, Microbiology, and Research and Development Labs. 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.

Stainless steel countertops are made of low carbon steel that is made up of chromium and nickel. Chromium makes it resistant to rust and corrosion, while nickel makes it stain and heat resistant.

Stainless steel countertops are made of low carbon steel that is made up of chromium and nickel. Chromium makes it resistant to rust and corrosion, while nickel makes it stain and heat resistant.

Pricing

This material gives your lab a very modern look and has moderate to high resistance to various conditions. The best benefit is its ability to handle very high heat. It is on the higher end as far as price, with Epoxy Resin being the only material that is more expensive.

Best Applications

Biological science, chemical, clean room, food testing, hospital, medical, and pharmaceutical labs. Labs performing experiments and tests where results depend on non-contamination, require worksurfaces that can handle high temperatures and are easily cleanable.

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. It is not recommended for exposure to extremes in humidity or heat over 275°F for suspended periods of time.

Pricing

If you are looking for a reasonably priced worksurface that is chemically resistant and has a more designer look for your lab tables, this is a good option. It is in the mid range for price and less expensive than Epoxy Resin and Stainless Steel. The downside is it should only be used for dry applications and can damage more easily.

Best Applications

Beauty product, dental, pathology labs, photographic darkroom, product testing, and urology labs. Labs performing experiments and tests where results depend on non-contamination and require worksurfaces that are chemical resistant, decorative and hygienic.

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 for your science lab table that is functional and durable. It is not recommended for exposure to extremes in humidity or heat over 275°F for suspended periods of time.

Pricing

Product testing and technology labs. Labs performing general functions that require worksurfaces that are functional, durable and decorative.

Best Applications

Beauty product, dental, pathology labs, photographic darkroom, product testing, and urology labs. Labs performing experiments and tests where results depend on non-contamination and require worksurfaces that are chemical resistant, decorative and hygienic.