Types of Laboratory Furniture Materials

Features of common laboratory furniture materials  

Whether you are building a new laboratory or simply replacing the furniture in an old laboratory, it’s important to consider the type of material your laboratory furniture is made out of. As a general rule of thumb, laboratory furniture can last 15 or more years. Since laboratory furniture is expensive, it’s important that you get all the years you possibly can out of your investment. Choosing the right material will help you do that. This article explores the different types of laboratory furniture materials, and explores their pros and cons.

Plastic Laminate: If you’re looking to outfit your laboratory on a budget, plastic laminate may be the way to go. Depending upon the application you plan to use it for, it may be important to finish your furniture with a chemical-resistant coating. It’s important to understand that plastic laminate also has the shortest life span of materials and does not complement all applications, so be sure to consider carefully before choosing this material.

Metal: If you have a bit more budget, metal is also cost-effective but withstands abuse better than some of the other laboratory furniture materials. Because it is cost-effective and sturdy, metal is frequently used in the commercial market. Metal will not complement all applications.

Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is an expensive laboratory furniture material, but excels when it comes to withstanding wear-and-tear. Because it is non-porous, it’s a good choice for laboratories that desire a certain amount of hygiene.

Wood: Wood costs less than stainless steel. Wood has an aesthetic appeal, but may not hold up in high-use labs.

Phenolic Resin: Because phenolic resins resist corrosion, they are good choices or acidic applications, or in wet areas where rusting can be an issue. Phenolic resin laboratory furniture costs less than stainless, but has a similar life span.

Polypropylene: Because of its high expense, this type of laboratory furniture material is used most often in highly acidic environments.

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