The epoxy resin countertop is a kind of worktop material specially used in laboratories. It is mainly formed by mixing epoxy resin with a curing agent and then solidifying through certain processes. Epoxy resin is a kind of high-molecular polymer, and its molecules contain epoxy groups. This structure endows it with good adhesion and chemical stability. The role of the curing agent is to react chemically with the epoxy resin, prompting it to change from a liquid state to a solid state, thus forming a hard countertop. Standard thickness is 15/16/19/25mm.
MANUFACTURING PROCESS
Mixing Stage: Epoxy resin and curing agent are precisely mixed in a set proportion. The proportion's accuracy is vital as it impacts the countertop's hardness, curing time, etc. Pigments and fillers can be added to enhance color and physical properties.
Casting and Molding: The blended material is poured into a pre-made mold, whose shape and size are based on the countertop's design. During pouring, avoid air entrapment as bubbles can cause surface unevenness or internal defects.
Curing Treatment: The poured material cures under specific temperature and time. This is a key step in forming a hard structure, stabilizing the molecular structure and achieving the desired properties.
Post-processing: The cured countertop needs post-processing. It involves grinding and polishing for a smoother surface, trimming edges for installation, and potentially cutting to the right size for the lab workbench.
ADVANTAGE
(I) Chemical Properties
Corrosion Resistance: Epoxy resin countertops resist acids, alkalis, and solvents in normal experiments. In chem labs with strong reagents, they don't corrode, ensuring bench life and safety.
Chemical Stability: Special structure keeps it stable. Bonds resist breakage, maintaining properties without issues.
(II) Physical Properties
Hardness & Wear Resistance: High hardness withstands equipment friction. In physics labs with moves, it stays flat.
High Temp Resistance: Endures heat up to 100 - 150℃, meeting heating needs.
Impact Resistance: Good impact resistance protects bench and equipment.
(III) Surface Characteristics
Smoothness: Smooth surface eases use and cleaning, reducing errors.
Impermeability: Poreless, it blocks liquid, ensuring cleanliness in bio labs.
EPOXY & PHENOLIC RESIN COUNTERTOP COMPARISON
Chem Prop: Epoxy resists strong acids/alkalis well, stable; Chem-resist board is weaker, less stable.
Phys Prop: Epoxy is hard, wear-res, heat-res (100 - 150℃), impact-res; Chem-resist board is softer, wears easily, heat-intol, less impact-res.
Surf Char: Epoxy is smooth, impermeable; Chem-resist board is inferior.
Price & Proc: Epoxy is costly, hard to process; Chem-resist board is cheap, easy to process.
Color Sel: Epoxy has limited colors; Chem-resist board has many.
