When it comes to selecting materials for your lab work space, many options exist. Fundermax and Trespa are two unique material offerings that provide varying options and levels of physical and chemical resistance.
What is TRESPA?
TREPSA is a well known manufacturer of architectural materials for science surfaces, exterior cladding and decorative applications. TRESPA is often the name people use when referring to their phenolic resin panels. These are manufactured using layers of kraft paper and thermosetting resins.
Their Electron Beam Curing (EBC) technology provides all of their materials with color stability, chemical and scratch resistance. This nonthermal curing method uses controlled high-energy electrons to cure special surfaces.
TRESPA TopLab plus is often used as science countertops in classrooms and laboratories. It is an efficient alternative to epoxy resin countertops in the majority of cases where extreme heat resistance is not needed.
TRESPA is also more easily accessible, provides reduced lead times and is easier to install.
What is FunderMax?
FunderMax is a company that creates materials for facades, cladding, interior fittings, work tops and more. Some people compare FunderMax to TRESPA, since both companies create quality materials for multiple uses in labs and construction.
FunderMax offers a number of product lines for different use cases and requirements. Their Max Resistance² boards are often used in educational, hospital and industrial laboratory settings. Boards are used as countertops, work surfaces and in other areas requiring high resistance paneling.
The laboratory industry often refers to Max Resistance² as “Max SPC” (solid phenolic compact). The double cured urethane acrylic coating protects the material from solvents and scratches.
It is easy to clean and disinfect, which makes it a great option for locations and labs requiring constant cleaning. Highly concentrated acids, like nitric or hydrochloric, will not damage the surface or color at all.
Max Resistance2 also uses a patented surface technology to provide 25% higher impact and scratch resistance. Compared to EBC or Melamine Surfaces, FunderMax Resistance 2 has 3 times higher abrasion resistance.
What is the difference between TRESPA and FunderMax?
FunderMax and TRESPA both offer material solutions for interior, exterior and laboratory use. Buyers have multiple options to choose from with each brand. When it comes to their interior solutions for lab design or worktops, both companies offer materials with similar benefits and performance.
| *FunderMax Max Resistance² | TRESPA TopLab Plus | |
|---|---|---|
| Color Core | Black | Black |
| Chemical resistance | High | Average |
| Core | Duromer HPL, double-cured polyurethane acrylic coating. | Thermoset resins, cellulose fiber reinforcement. |
| Impact & scratch resistance | Very high (25% higher scratch resistance) | high |
| Warranty | 10 years | 10 years |
| GREENGUARD certified | Yes | Yes |
| Industries | Technical workstations, pharmaceutical, biochemistry, medical, food and beverage, water treatment plants, chemical, school and universities. | Chemical, physical, analytical and microbiological labs, biochemical, medical school and universities. |
*tested according to EN 438 GSC
Overall, answering some of these questions will give you a much better idea of what specifics you need to look for. Of course, the CFI team can always help you make the right decision.
- What industry do you work in?
- What is the function of the lab?
- Will personnel be using very high heat or chemicals?
- Are there any special design requirements, such as color?
- What is your budget?
How Custom Fabricators Helps
Custom Fabricators has over 60 years of experience helping design, supply and install lab furnishings and equipment. Our experienced team can help you decide whether TRESPA, FunderMAX or other materials are best for your application.
Contact us today to learn more about our lab design capability or for a material and furniture quote.
