Laboratory countertops
Selecting the right laboratory countertop surface is a critical decision, as countertops endure significant wear and tear from daily operations. The ideal material is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it depends entirely on the specific applications and experiments performed in your lab.
Key factors to guide your selection include:
Chemical Resistance, Heat & Impact Resistance, Abrasion & Moisture Resistance, Anti-Microbial Properties, Load-Bearing Capacity, Aesthetics and Budget
Trespa worktop
TRESPA laboratory worktops are durable, one-piece panels engineered from cellulose-reinforced thermosetting resins under high pressure and temperature. Ideal for demanding lab environments, they are internationally certified for chemical resistance, low emissions, and food-safe compliance.
Epoxy resin worktop
Epoxy Resin is a premier laboratory benchtop material, engineered for maximum durability and chemical resistance. This modern surface is mechanically strong, stain-resistant, and easily decontaminated. It also offers excellent fire resistance and low flame-spread properties for enhanced safety. Available in custom thicknesses from 19mm to 25mm.
Ceramic worktop
The Ceramic worktops are manufactured by blending clay, quartz, feldspar, and other natural materials, which are then fired at a high temperature of 1240°C. This process results in a surface with superior properties compared to standard worktops, notably higher density, lower liquid absorption, and greater overall resistance. The specialized glazing is chemically resistant, designed to endure common laboratory chemicals. During glazing, color pigments are applied and fully integrate and crystallize with the ceramic body under the intense heat.
Granite worktop
Granite, an igneous rock, is highly valued for worktops due to its inherent toughness and durability. It’s significantly less porous than marble, making it a practical choice. Granite worktops are fabricated to a minimum thickness of 19 mm, and their exposed edges are given a round molded finish. While the raw stone is naturally rough, the manufacturing process involves grinding and polishing, which reveals a smooth, lustrous surface. Because granite is composed of various minerals, every slab offers a unique and attractive appearance.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene worktops offer an excellent combination of chemical resistance and suitability for moisture-rich or wet areas. They are the preferred choice for specialized laboratories and applications demanding high corrosion resistance, particularly those handling acid-rich operations. These countertops are highly customizable, available in sheet thicknesses ranging from 3 mm to 15 mm. For structural support, these polypropylene sheets are backed with plywood ranging from 18 mm to 36 mm and finished with hot-melt glued PVC edging.
Solid surface (acrylic)
Solid surface material is an excellent choice for both commercial and residential settings, perfect for areas like kitchens and reception desks. Its main advantage lies in its fabrication flexibility: it can be easily cut, shaped, molded, and formed into three-dimensional designs. Solid surface worktops are typically constructed using 12 mm thick solid surface sheets that are supported by an 18 mm to 36 mm plywood backing. These units often include an integrated backsplash and downturn.
Stainless steel worktop
Stainless steel worktops are highly practical because they are largely inert to the acids and alkalis found in common foodstuffs, vegetables, and additives. This inherent quality, combined with their extreme durability, stain resistance, and inability to chip or fade, makes them easy to clean with minimal maintenance. Furthermore, stainless steel is 100% recyclable. The standard construction uses a 1.2 mm thick sheet of either 304 or 316 grade stainless steel, which is backed by 18 mm to 36 mm of plywood and features an integrated 100 mm high backsplash.
Solid wood worktop
Solid wood worktops are ideally suited for mechanical or workshop benches where the surface undergoes significant physical activity. A key advantage is the natural beauty wood brings to a work area, which is difficult to duplicate with other materials. Unlike many surfaces that degrade with age and use, wood maintains its original splendor over time. These worktops are highly versatile, available in various thicknesses and finishes.
Melamine laminated plywood
Laminated plywood worktops are primarily designated for dry environments such as offices and computer labs. The construction centers around 24 mm BWP (Boiled Water Proof) plywood, which is laminated on both sides with a 0.9 mm thick High Pressure Laminate (HPL). This bonding is achieved through a hot press utilizing a minimum of 90 tons of pressure to ensure strong adhesion. For a finished look, all worktops include 3 mm thick hot-melt glued PVC edging and a 100 mm glued backsplash on wall-mounted benches.
