CARE & MAINTENANCE OF EPOXY RESIN LABORATORY WORK SURFACES

Q: What are the benefits of epoxy resin countertops?

Countertops offer a number of benefits. Aesthetically, they can provide a modern, sleek look to any space. In terms of practicality, epoxy resin countertop benefits include: less dirt and stains, resistance to discoloration and staining, and easy maintenance, ensuring that they continue to look good even after prolonged use.

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Epoxy Resin work surfaces are durable, non-porous, man-made stone products that are relatively unaffected by most chemicals, heat, ame and moisture. These super-tough surfaces’ physical properties are seldom compromised; however, they do require periodic care and maintenance throughout the life of the lab or school room to keep the surfaces looking like new. Whether you are a facility owner, manager, custodian or lab user, it is helpful to know how to maintain the good appearance of your lab's epoxy resin countertop surfaces.

Epoxy Resin work surfaces are durable, non-porous, man-made stone products that are relatively unaffected by most chemicals, excessive heat, ame and moisture.

Regular Care Procedures

Acetone or Paint Thinner

Crystal Simple Green®

White Scotch Brite® Pads (always use moist or wet) • Finish Oil (Mineral Oil)

Murphy’s Oil

Clean Rags or Sponges

Chamois Cloth

Mild Soap or Household Cleaner

Two-part Smooth-On® epoxy grout

Note: Never use wax or polish containing wax on epoxy resin work surfaces or sinks. Also, never use abrasive pads, powders or liquids (such as Soft Scrub) as dulling of the surface will result.

Epoxy Resin Sink Care

Laboratory sink areas usually present the greatest cleaning and maintenance challenges. Sinks are a collection point for dirty and wet lab ware which leaves liquids, residue and chemicals on the surface for extended periods of time. Sink areas will require a more thorough cleaning regimen than dry bench tops as well as more frequent inspections. Sink inspections should include all sink surfaces and joints in sink the area including the outlet joint and the sink rim joint above and below the work surface. Cracked or pitted joints should be lled immediately with two-part Smooth-On® epoxy grout to prevent leaking and damage to the supporting casework.

Marring, Scratches & Stains

If there is a more serious cleaning issue it is important to identify the problem before trying to remedy it.

Marring

Most metals are softer than the work surface and can leave a mar if pulled across the top. Marring is matter left on the surface that appears as a line and remains smooth to the touch. Marring can almost always be removed with acetone or with mild cleaning products and elbow grease.

Always try the softest cloth and the weakest solution (soap and water) first. If marring persists, progress to a white Light Duty Scotchbrite® Pad moistened with stronger solutions. Never use a dry Scotchbrite pad or a more abrasive pad and always apply the minimum amount of pressure required on the surface to
remove the mar.

Scratches

Harder metals, abrasives and heavy or sharp items can
dig into the surface resulting in a scratch. Scratches usually
appear as a lighter shade of the surface and will be rough to the touch. Scratches in epoxy resin are permanent but will not a ect work surface performance.

An aesthetic remedy for scratches is coloring in the void with a perma- nent marker. This option will never perfectly match the color and gloss of the surrounding surface.

Stained Surfaces

Staining can be caused by chemicals left to dry on the surface. Chemical stains usually lighten or bleach the surface but can also roughen and even crack the top. Like scratches, chemical stains are permanent and, if they have caused too much damage, you may need to replace of the top.

Special Care Issues

Epoxy resin products (especially glued in sinks) are subject to thermal shock and are not warranted against damage from liquid nitrogen or dry ice. Possible e ects caused by the improper disposal of these materials include joint failure and/or sink fractures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of countertops?

Countertops primarily serve as a functional workspace in various settings, including kitchens, bathrooms, and laboratories. In these environments, they provide a flat, stable surface that's convenient for performing various tasks, such as preparing food in a kitchen, grooming in a bathroom, or conducting experiments in a lab. Beyond their practical purposes, countertops also contribute to the overall aesthetic and design of the space. The material, color, and finish of a countertop can dramatically influence the look and feel of a room.

What is the perfect or ideal working table in the laboratory?

The ideal type of laboratory table should combine several important characteristics. Firstly, it needs to be durable and capable of withstanding the demanding laboratory environment, often involving exposure to a variety of chemicals, high temperatures, and rigorous cleaning routines. Epoxy resin or phenolic resin tops are often chosen for this reason. Secondly, it needs to be ergonomically designed to ensure the comfort of lab personnel during long hours of work. Finally, the table should have features that suit the specific needs of the lab, such as built-in storage, integrated power supply, or customizable layout for various equipment.

What are black laboratory countertops made of?

One of the many colors of phenolic resin countertops, black laboratory countertops are typically made from epoxy resin or phenolic resin. These materials are chosen for their excellent durability and resistance to a wide range of chemicals, heat, and mechanical damage. The black color offers a sleek aesthetic and the added advantage of showing fewer stains and discoloration over time compared to lighter shades.

What are the benefits of epoxy resin countertops?

We could not be happier with your product

we just received our latest order of your bench top tables and we could not be happier with your product! It seems that with every order your tables get better and better! We love the new tapered edges and they arrived intact thanks to the well packaged shipping containers! Keep up the quality product and the great customer service!

– Selest, Core Equipment Manager, Center For Immunobiology, Western Michigan University

Our lab looks great...

So far everything is good. Our lab looks great and is operating wonderfully.

– R.R., Process Engineer, Chemson Inc.

The counter top was perfect for us!

We are so glad we found your company, especially since it is beneficial to shop locally. We may need additional benches in the future as our Molecular Department grows. We'll definitely keep your company in mind.

– B.Z., Clinical Laboratory Scientist, TOPA Diagnostics

I was pleased with the quality of the product, as well as the service from the company

I had a rush order for a custom cart. I knew I was pushing the timeline for design and delivery of a custom product, but they rushed every aspect of the process - from design to manufacture - and we received our cart by our target date. They double checked specifications and kept me informed of the process. When the cart arrived, I was pleased with the quality of the product, as well as the service from the company. I have ordered custom carts/casework before and resintops.net's service and support was better than what I have received from other vendors. I have referred colleagues to resintops.net and will definitely reach out to resintops.net for future custom products.

- T.S., Altius Diagnostics

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Resin Tops is a customer service-driven company that supplies a wide array of lab furnishings for most types of laboratory environments. You’ll find the difference with us is demonstrated by providing superior customer service with integrity, skill, and knowledge.

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