A laboratory is a place where scientific experiments and research are carried out, and it is essential that the environment is clean and safe for everyone working in it. One of the most important aspects of a laboratory is the worksurface, as it is where all the experiments and research are conducted.
The worksurface must be suitable for the task at hand, as well as being durable, easy to clean, and resistant to damage from chemicals and other substances that may be used in the lab.
In this article, we explore the best worksurfaces for use in a scientific workspace.
Zachary Muscat from Evolve said: ‘The worksurface is an essential component of any laboratory, and it is important to choose the right material for the task at hand. Stainless steel, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, solid surface, and granite are all popular choices for laboratory worksurfaces.
‘When selecting a worksurface, it is important to consider factors such as durability, resistance to chemicals and stains, ease of maintenance, and resistance to damage. With the right worksurface, a laboratory can function efficiently, safely, and effectively.’
GRANITE
Granite is a natural stone that is known for its durability, resistance to heat, and resistance to scratches and stains. Granite worksurfaces are often used in geology labs, where rocks and minerals are analysed. They are also a popular choice in physics labs, where heavy equipment is used, as they can withstand a lot of weight. A very common use for granite is for weigh scales balance benches and microscope benches where the instruments require protection from vibration.
ESD
ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) worktops are specialized work surfaces that are designed to prevent the build-up and discharge of static electricity. They are commonly used in electronics manufacturing, research and development labs, and other industries where sensitive electronic equipment is handled. ESD worktops are typically made from materials that have low electrical resistance, such as static-dissipative laminate. The worktops are grounded to prevent the build-up of static electricity, and are often connected to a grounding system that includes ESD wrist straps, conductive floor mats, and other equipment designed to prevent electrostatic discharge.
SOLID SURFACE
Solid surface worksurfaces such as Velstone are made from a combination of natural minerals and acrylic polymers. They are known for their durability, easy maintenance, and resistance to chemicals and stains. Solid surface worksurfaces are commonly used in blood labs and hospitals where a joint-free worksurface is required as they can be easily cleaned and sanitised.
STAINLESS STEEL
Stainless steel is also a choice for laboratory worksurfaces due to its durability, easy maintenance, and resistance to chemicals and stains. It is also easy to clean, making it an ideal option for labs where hygiene is a top priority. Stainless steel worksurfaces are commonly used in areas where corrosive chemicals are used or in microbiology labs where bacteria and other microbes are present. It is also a preferred choice for sterile environments where the risk of contamination must be minimized such as hospital theatres, mortuaries, and forensic pathology labs, however it is generally quite expensive due to the specialist fabrication costs and as such tends to be used in a more limited way for specific areas of a lab.
EPOXY RESIN
Epoxy resin is another choice for laboratory worksurfaces. It is a synthetic material that is highly resistant to chemicals and is easy to clean. Epoxy resin worksurfaces are often used in chemistry labs where strong acids and bases are used, as well as in microbiology labs where bacteria and other microbes are present. It is also commonly used in hospital and clinical environments due to its antimicrobial properties.
PHENOLIC RESIN
Phenolic resin worksurfaces are known for their durability, resistance to chemicals, and low maintenance. Phenolic resin is a synthetic material that is made from layers of paper or wood pulp impregnated with phenolic resin and compressed under high pressure and heat. Phenolic resin worksurfaces are suitable for most lab environments and are probably the most common laboratory worktop in use today in Europe, as they can withstand exposure to acids, bases, and solvents.
Here to support you
Evolve is proud to be the fastest-growing science company in Malta. We offer a comprehensive range of scientific products and services, from supplying the latest microscopes to award-winning lab design and the turnkey installation of medical cannabis facilities.
With our team of experts, you can chat to us about science products and planning for your business sector, and tap in to our knowledge.
For assistance, call us on +356 2248 9900 or email info@evolveltd.eu
Good to know
Be the first to hear our latest news, ideas and initiatives from Evolve
Evolve’s commitment to you
Evolve helps medics, researchers, technicians and scientists increase efficiency and productivity every day. We are a leading supplier of laboratory equipment and analytical instruments for scientific, R&D, educational and medical laboratories in Malta, Europe and beyond. We back all our lab equipment products with unbiased technical assistance to help you solve your application needs.
At Evolve, we always…
- Put our customers first – We dedicate our energy and efforts to sourcing great quality products and exceeding customer service expectations.
- Act with integrity – We build relationships based on honesty, trust and transparency with our customers, colleagues and the communities we serve.
- Strive for simplicity – We believe that simplicity lowers costs for our customers, increases efficiencies and makes life easier for everyone.
- Enjoy what we do – We work hard, try our best, share and celebrate success and love what we do. It makes our lives better and results in better customer service.
