Laboratory Journals
Volume I
Chapter II
Work Surface Selection Guide
Not all laboratories require the same counter top. Price should not be your determining factor when selecting an appropriate laboratory top. And, chemical resistance is not always the only determining factor when selecting a work surface.
Laboratories that handle radioactive materials choose counter tops made of non-porous materials and that are easy to clean because of the necessity of regular cleaning. Metallurgical or geological labs are more interested in impact resistance and choose laboratory counter tops that can withstand physical abuse.
Remember, not all laboratory surfaces are created the same and many have unique characteristics that make them favorable to a respective science. Below is guide with some common considerations to be taken into account when selecting counter tops for work areas.
Laboratory Tops in a Chemistry Use Area:
1. Chemical Resistance
2. Ease of Cleaning
3.
Color Suitability
4.
Strength
5.
Abrasion Resistance
6.
Heat Resistance
7.
Thermal Shock Resistance
Laboratory Counter Tops in a Biology Use Area:
1. Stain Resistance
2. Ease of Cleaning
3. Abrasion Resistance
4.
Bacteria & Fungus Resistance
Laboratory Counter Tops in a Physics Area:
1. Physical Strength
2. Abrasion Resistance
3. Impact Resistance
|
