Why You Should Select Chemical Resistant Laminate for Lab Countertops?

Merino Laminates, February 23, 2022

Laminates are a popular solution to provide aesthetics with great utility to any modern space. But when designing a laboratory, choosing the right material can be tricky as the selection of inappropriate material is not advisable. Hence, recommended by many expert interior designers, Chemical Resistant Laminates provide the perfect application for laboratories as they are engineered to resist harsh chemicals strongly.

What is Chemical Resistant Laminate?

Chemical Resistant Laminates are Performance Laminates crafted with a special grade, electron beam cured décor paper and Kraft paper impregnated with modified Melamine/Phenol Formaldehyde resin. This imparts extra protection to a highly prone chemical environment.

Benefits of Using Chemical Resistant Laminate for Lab Countertops:

Highly Resistant to Chemicals: Chemical Resistant Laminates are highly resistant to all kinds of chemicals and reduce the risk of damage. 

Abrasion Resistant: Chemical resistant products have a high resistance to abrasion, hence are suitable to all kinds of applications on surfaces that hold tools, glassware and other laboratory equipment.

Extra Durable: Infused with superior chemical and physical properties chemical laminates are highly durable and recommended for areas that involve working, storing and disposing of chemicals.

Scratch Resistant: Chemical Laminates have higher scratch resistance than other products and laminates available in the market.

Low Maintenance: Chemical Laminate requires very low maintenance and little care. In case of spills of chemicals, fast cleaning is strongly advisable. Make sure that hot objects or hot liquids don’t come in direct contact with the decorative surfaces for a long duration.

Types of Chemical-Resistant Countertop Material:

For a science lab, picking the proper countertop materials is an important choice that affects durability, safety, and functionality. Countertops for science labs must be resistant to a variety of chemicals, heat, and heavy use. Here is a guide to select materials for science lab countertops:

Epoxy resin countertops: Since they can withstand intense heat, open flames, and fire, epoxy countertops are the industry standard material for most laboratories. They are very adaptable, scalable, and compatible with sinks and other benchtop equipment. But transporting and shipping the material is quite expensive and heavy. It can’t be exposed to UV light for too long, and it is also easily scratched.

Phenolic resin countertops: Phenolic resin countertops can endure heat exposure of up to 350°F and can resist bacteria and dampness. But they don’t have flame retardant properties, Phenolic resin countertops are flammable, and can be damaged by a prolonged heat exposure.

Laminated countertops: To add more usefulness, durability, and chemical resistance, high pressure laminates are a cost effective solution. They cover the decorative surface area with melamine resin and can be exposed to sunlight. 

Stainless Steel countertops: Stainless steel is a high-end material choice that works well in many scientific environments. The majority of stainless steel contains chromium, which toughens, hardens, and makes the material resistant to corrosion at high temperatures. But they aren’t resistant to scratch & dent if you aren’t careful and come with a high price tag.

How Merino Chem+ Countertops Can Help You?

Merino Chem+ laminates are specially treated with EB cured layer that provide exceptional resistance to strong chemicals like acids, alkalis, corrosive salts and other staining substances without compromising on style. They can be applied on different surfaces including sinks, countertops, lab benches, and work surfaces in chemical laboratories, pathogen labs, photographic labs, nursing stations, cabinets, casework fronts, wall panels and more. Our Chem+ countertops can withstand heat and sun exposure. 

If lab operation is your core business then Merino Chem+ surfaces can be the solution to all your worries. For all laboratory furnishing requirements explore the range of Merino Laminates today!

FAQs

What Is Chemical Resistant Laminate?

Answer: Chemical resistant laminate is a  unique kind of laminate that is specifically made to endure exposure to various chemicals, solvents, and potentially corrosive substances without degrading, changing colour, or being damaged. This kind of laminate is frequently utilized in settings where chemical spills or contact with abrasive materials occur frequently. It is a superior option for usage in laboratories, healthcare institutions, industrial settings, and other locations with strict requirements since it delivers a higher level of durability and protection than regular laminates.

Properties of Chemical Resistant Laminates?

Answer: Chemical resistant laminates are specifically engineered to offer a high level of durability and protection against a wide range of chemicals and corrosive substances. These laminates are designed to withstand the challenges posed by chemical exposure like colour fading, stain resistance, heat and flame resistance while maintaining their structural integrity and appearance.

Is High Pressure Laminate Chemical Resistant?

High Pressure Laminate (HPL) is known for its durability and versatility, but its chemical resistance can vary depending on the specific formulation and manufacturing process. While HPL does offer some level of resistance to chemicals, it’s important to consider the type of chemicals involved and the intended application.