Worktops are the core surfaces of laboratory benches, designed to support essential scientific work while withstanding rigorous use. These surfaces must be tailored to meet specific laboratory requirements, whether for chemical, biological, physical, or educational purposes. Worktops can be crafted from materials like Trespa, Compact HPL, epoxy resin, or laminate, each offering unique durability, resistance, hygiene, and cost-effectiveness suited to particular lab environments. Additionally, these worktops are often customized to accommodate sinks, faucets, and other equipment, making them functional and seamless for lab operations. With the right worktop material, you ensure safety, productivity, and longevity in any laboratory setting.
Top Laboratory Worktop Materials
Here’s an in-depth look at several top worktop materials for laboratories:
Epoxy Resin Worktops
Description: U.S. Epoxy is a cast, solid epoxy resin, oven-cured for a seamless, monolithic design with a non-reflective, smooth finish. Produced at an ISO 9000-certified facility in Texas, U.S. Epoxy offers a high-quality, LEED-qualified surface that’s ideal for lab use.
Benefits: Known for its remarkable chemical and heat resistance, epoxy resin withstands discoloration, blistering, and cracking under harsh conditions. It is free of asbestos, making it safe and environmentally conscious.
Applications: Perfect for rigorous lab environments, such as chemistry and microbiology labs, where resistance to acids and solvents is essential.
Compact Max Resistance Worktops
Description: This self-supporting flat panel features a urethane-acrylic surface, and a phenolic resin core reinforced with cellulose fibers. Its unique Electron Beam Curing (EBC) process ensures a non-porous, highly chemical-resistant surface.
Benefits: The closed surface resists dirt buildup is easy to clean and does not support bacterial growth. With an integrated backsplash and a marine edge, Compact HPL is highly resistant to aggressive chemicals, wear, moisture and also scratch resistant.
Applications: Suitable for a variety of labs, Compact HPL worktops provide an exceptional surface for cleanroom and sterile labs where hygiene is prioritized.
Granite Worktops
Description: Granite worktops offer a sophisticated, durable solution with a high-quality appearance. Composed of imported double-black granite sheets, this natural stone resists scratches, abrasions, and has a homogeneous texture.
Benefits: Granite is resistant to most chemicals and acids, easy to sanitize, and provides a durable and stylish option for labs focused on both aesthetics and functionality.
Applications: Ideal for labs that require a sturdy surface but aren’t exposed to extreme chemical use. Granite’s elegant finish also makes it a popular choice in educational labs.
By choosing the right worktop material for your lab’s unique needs, you’re creating a safer, more efficient workspace that will stand up to the demands of your daily operations.
Epoxy resin and Compact HPL are both excellent choices for labs handling aggressive chemicals. Epoxy is particularly durable against acids, while HPL non-porous surface resists chemical wear and bacterial growth.
Granite worktops are generally low-maintenance and require regular cleaning with neutral pH cleaners. It’s advisable to avoid highly acidic solutions to preserve its finish and durability.
Yes, epoxy resin is free from asbestos, making it a safe choice for sensitive environments. Its durability and resistance to cracking and blistering under harsh conditions ensure a reliable surface.
Absolutely! Many labs opt to use a combination of worktop materials. For instance, epoxy resin may be used in chemical-heavy areas, while Compact HPL might be installed in less chemically intensive zones and offers a scratch free surface.