3 Reasons Why Phenolic Resin Countertops Are Perfect for Labs

There is one witness to every laboratory experiment performed in a lab. That witness is a countertop, where all lab equipment and chemicals sit pretty on while scientists and researchers rack their brains to make our world a better place. The importance of a good laboratory countertop cannot be overemphasised. However, one needs to be careful when choosing a laboratory surface. Safety, efficiency, and longevity must be prioritized for a laboratory countertop to be the best for you. Among all countertop surfaces, one lab countertop that meets all the criteria is a phenolic resin countertop. This article will highlight three primary reasons why these countertops are the best for your laboratory. 

#1 Unmatched Durability 

In a laboratory setting, the durability of a surface means a surface that can endure the daily rigours of scientific exploration. This means the surface must resist scratches from sharp tools, withstand the impact of dropped beakers or equipment, and support the weight of heavy machinery without compromising the countertop standard.

Phenolic resin countertops excel in this category thanks to their unique construction. Unlike some solid surfaces, they are not just made from simple materials. Instead, phenolic resin countertops are composed of multiple layers of kraft paper saturated with phenolic resin and then compressed under intense heat and pressure. This construction, reinforced with these strong resins, creates a virtually indestructible surface. 

#2 Impenetrable Chemical Resistance

A standard laboratory is constantly at war with chemical spillage. It is essential to use countertops that have a strong resistance against potent acids and bases used during experiments. The constant exposure to such harsh substances can lead to staining, etching, and even complete surface degradation. Phenolic resin countertops, however, stand firm as the best chemical resistance platform. These countertops are tightly bonded and non-porous. Their structure creates an impenetrable barrier unaffected by most acids, bases, and solvents. 

A good example is the standard laboratory chemical hydrochloric acid. This highly corrosive acid can eat through many materials, but phenolic resin countertops will not be dented. Their exceptional chemical resistance ensures a safe and reliable work surface. It helps to minimize the risk of damage from accidental spills or routine chemical use.

#3 Easy Cleaning and Maintenance 

Aside from its strong chemical resistance, phenolic resin countertops are one of the best countertops because of their easy maintenance. Take a biology laboratory prone to contamination with bacteria and molds, for example. These microorganisms can eventually compromise future experiments. Phenolic resin countertops, however, excel in this area because they can be easily cleaned. 

Unlike some materials that harbor bacteria in microscopic cracks, the smooth surface of phenolic resin offers no room to keep such microbes. The countertops are also easy to wipe if chemical spills on the table tops. Cleaning these countertops also doesn’t require a lot of effort. All you need to do is use a good detergent, water, and sponge. Meanwhile, you may only use water and a sponge if the spilled chemical is corrosive and reactive.

Conclusion 

Different materials can be used to cover the countertops of laboratory tables. Nonetheless, you must settle for the best when setting up a laboratory. It would help if you had a costly and efficient material that would serve its duty as a laboratory countertop. The three reasons mentioned above are just a few of the major advantages of getting phenolic resin countertops.

Tags: