Laboratories are designed for lab personnel to achieve their professional endeavors. Many laboratories feature specialized equipment (e.g., heating equipment, extraction apparatus, fume hoods, cleaners, etc.) to carry out specific, highly-defined processes. But one common feature among laboratories is the furniture.
Laboratory furniture is designed with materials that are conducive to the work being performed and designed in a manner that can withstand the rigors of lab environments. It is important to choose the right furniture material and pay attention to surface choice, as this impacts the longevity of the furniture investment. The most common laboratory furniture materials are:
Plastic Laminate Casework— Affordable, Aesthetic, Light-Duty
As one of the most affordable options in any laboratory workbench materials comparison, plastic laminate casework is easy to manufacture and budget-friendly without sacrificing aesthetics. Plastic laminate offers a wide variety of colors, textures, and patterns. It is an attractive choice and comes in handy in situations where design is important. Also, this material absorbs sound better than metal, so in situations that require a quiet atmosphere, plastic laminate may be a great option.
Metal Casework— Durable General-Purpose Lab Furniture
Steel and metal provide a sturdy option for durable laboratory cabinet construction and are frequently specified in commercial, industrial, and government lab settings. It is very durable and can withstand more abuse than other materials, but it will not complement all applications. Metal is very utilitarian, easy to maintain, and makes cleaning a breeze.
Polypropylene Casework— Corrosion-Free, Sterile-Environment Ready
Polypropylene materials provide high acid resistance. With no metal exposed on polypropylene furniture, there will be no worries about rust or corrosion. Polypropylene casework provides superior spill containment, making it a top choice for sterile area laboratory furniture in surgical suites, cleanrooms, and pharmaceutical environments. As a stain-resistant material, polypropylene retains its strength and color for many years.
Wood Casework— Non-Metallic, Warm, Chemically Compatible
Wood casework adds a touch of warmth to any environment as it is long-lasting and provides many options. From maple to oak, by finding the right finish, you can secure a professional look for your laboratory. Wood materials are constructed using time-honored construction techniques, leading to high-quality products. Wood is an excellent chemical-resistant lab furniture alternative for applications involving reagents or processes that would corrode or degrade metal surfaces.
Phenolic Resin Casework— Acid-Resistant, Low-Maintenance, Hygienic
Phenolic resin is among the most chemical-resistant lab furniture materials available, engineered to withstand prolonged exposure to acids, solvents, and harsh disinfectants. They can come in a variety of color choices and are very durable in high-moisture areas.
Also rust-resistant and virtually maintenance-free, phenolic resin is resistant to most bacteria and fungus growth, making it one of the most hygienic surface materials available for lab and medical environments — including operating suites, sterile areas, nurse stations, and dialysis treatment areas.
Stainless Steel Casework— Premium Durability for Wet and Clinical
The premier choice of lab furniture for wet environments, stainless steel casework is non-porous, rust-resistant, and maintains structural integrity under constant moisture exposure. This worksurface provides excellent chemical and heat resistance and is easily cleaned. Adaptable to any color scheme or decor, stainless steel casework is a popular choice in many biological, biomedical, pharmaceutical, and hospital labs.
Related: Things To Consider Before Purchasing Laboratory Furniture
The style of furniture is one thing, but furniture materials will determine the durability and effectiveness of your laboratory. Since every laboratory is different and the work being performed is diverse, it is imperative to select the proper materials for your unique environment. A knowledgeable lab design professional can help you make the choice that is right for your situation and your budget.
Contact National Laboratory Sales today and speak with a design expert who will listen to your needs and find the perfect equipment and casework for your laboratory.
| Material | Best For | Avoid When |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic Laminate | Low-budget, design-forward, light-duty labs | Heavy chemical or moisture exposure |
| Metal | General commercial and industrial labs | Corrosive or wet environments |
| Polypropylene | Sterile, surgical, chemical-heavy labs | High-heat applications |
| Wood | Chemical labs that corrode metal | High-moisture or sterile environments |
| Phenolic Resin | Hospital, pharma, high-moisture labs | Budget-limited projects |
| Stainless Steel | Wet labs, biomedical, pharmaceutical | Aesthetic-first applications |