After choosing your laboratory casework, the next step is to select an appropriate lab countertop to tie everything together. The most important factor in determining which countertop is best for your laboratory space is the type of work you currently perform, as well as what you’d like to accomplish in the future. Ravensberg, Inc. has a vast selection of laboratory countertops perfect for a variety of lab settings. Our designers will recommend and assist as needed to ensure you’re happy with your new space.
Request A Project Quote
What Are the Common Uses of Laboratory Countertops?
As scientific discoveries continue to advance, laboratory settings also become increasingly diverse in their applications. Whether a lab is used for teaching, testing, experimentation, technology, or research, it’s crucial for the space to accommodate the work. Therefore, varying types of countertops with different characteristics are created to suit the ever-growing needs of the industry. Our goal is to assist you in determining the perfect laboratory countertop materials that both you and your team can enjoy.
Types of Countertop Material
Just as there are various types of lab casework, such as wood, plastic laminate, and steel, so too are there many kinds of countertops depending on the work performed. We are proud to offer expansive choices of laboratory countertop materials that are made according to your specifications. Additionally, we will work to ensure your lab is ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant, as well as meets all other federal and state regulations. We’re certain you’ll be proud of your new work space!
Polypropylene
Polypropylene is a form of plastic that is significantly different from the other materials we offer. It is most commonly used in labs that perform pathology, blood science, trace metal analysis, metallurgy, acid production, food science, and those whose experiments require high resistance to corrosion. It’s the best option if your lab environment is acid-rich. Benefits of polypropylene countertops include:
- Non-porous (does not absorb water or other substances)
- Scratch-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and mold-resistant
- Low levels of electrical conductivity
- Lightweight and durable
Epoxy Resin
Epoxy resin lab countertops are made from a mixture of materials and are then cured together to create a solid product. Those working in biological science, microbiology, medical, education, hospitals, and research can benefit most from epoxy resin. It is durable, resistant to the most aggressive chemicals and extreme heat, as well as easy to clean and maintain. Other advantages include:
- Bacterial-, fungal-, water-, moisture-, corrosion-, and chemical- resistant
- Can withstand continuous heat exposure of up to 350°F
- Flame retardant
- Most durable option
Phenolic Resin
Phenolic resin lab countertops are manufactured by layering natural kraft paper that has been saturated with phenolic resin and processed under high temperatures. Therefore, it is a solid, lightweight countertop choice that is both durable and long-lasting. Phenolic resin countertops are most commonly used in settings where experiments and tests that rely on non-contamination are performed, such as clinical, biological, chemical, and analytical laboratories. Although it is not flame retardant, other benefits include:
- High bacterial, fungal, chemical, moisture, and scratch resistance
- Moderate to high corrosion resistance
- Can withstand continuous heat exposure of up to 350°F
Stainless Steel
As a commonly used laboratory countertop, stainless steel is composed of chromium and nickel. Chromium fuels its resistance to rust and corrosion, while nickel gives it stain- and heat-resistant properties. Stainless steel is also a non-porous surface, which means liquids, bacteria, mold, and other germs cannot penetrate. It is a well-suited choice for labs performing experiments and tests that require non-contamination, as well as those needing a surface that can withstand high temperatures. Industries such as biological science, food testing, and hospitals, in addition to medical, chemical, and pharmaceutical lab settings, can benefit most.
Some additional advantages include:
- Can withstand continuous heat exposure of up to 1500°F
- Highly resistant to most substances
- Moderate to heavy duty
Laminate
As another common lab countertop material, laminate is universally utilized in many industries. It is the most affordable option and possesses a designer feel. The two types of laminate lab countertops are chemical-resistant and high-pressure.
Chemical-Resistant Laminate
As stated in its name, chemical-resistant laminate is highly unaffected by harsh chemicals. It is manufactured by applying a melamine resin over decorative surface paper, which is thus bonded to a core of kraft papers infused with phenolic resin. For those in the beauty product, dental, photographic darkroom, product testing, pathology, and urology industries, chemical-resistant laminate is the ideal choice. Although not the most durable or globally resistant material, a few more advantages include:
- Can withstand heat exposure of up to 275°F
- Affordable option
- Designer looks
High-Pressure Laminate
Made the same way as chemical-resistant laminate, high-pressure laminate is a decorative work space option that is both functional and durable. It is the most economical countertop material with many looks from which to choose. High-pressure laminate is used mostly for general purposes that are chemical-free and dry. As such, it is not resistant to any substance, but other benefits include:
- Can withstand heat exposure of up to 275°F
- Most affordable option
- Decorative style
Get Started With Your New Lab Countertops Today
As a family-owned business, Ravensberg, Inc. gives each client the utmost care and attention they deserve. When you choose Ravensberg for your lab countertops, you receive an expert team that’s dedicated to every step of your project. Lab countertops should be a long-term investment, and with a variety of materials from which to choose, we’re sure you’ll find one that best suits your specific needs. Contact us today for a quote with rapid turnaround! We look forward to helping you transform your laboratory.
