Jenny Lee
Solid Surface
General Information
Solid surface is designed to substitute natural surfacing materials such as granite and marble but with improved performance characteristics. It is very durable and has a consistent color. Solid surface is also nonporous, and therefore resistant to the growth of mold and bacteria. It is also resistant to any stains and chemicals.
Solid surface is composed of a bauxite product, alumina trihydrate, and a polymer (acrylic, polyester, or both). Additives or fillers (i.e. marble dust, quartz) and pigments are then added to the solution.
It is installed on walls that are 1/4" thick with adhesives. However, solid surface material can expand and contract slightly so installing over a plywood substrate could cause cracking or heat build-up. The joints are then made invisible by dissolving the edges of the material with solvents and fusing. Thanks to its imperviousness, solid surface material is not harmed by cleaning supplies. Soapy water and ammonia-based cleaner is recommended but can be disinfected with diluted bleach once in a while.
Environmental Impact
Many solid surfaces contain recycled content. They are made from reclaimed solid surfacing and various types of post-industrial waste. KRION by Porcelanosa is a great example because it is 100% recyclable and can be repurposed at the end of its lifecycle. Solid surface has great hygienic properties as it is resistant to bacteria and fungal growth. It has no negative effect on indoor air quality. Some materials possess air purification and self-cleaning capabilities such as KLIFE by KRION.
Use in Interior Setting
1. HI-MACS is a new solid surfacing material that is made of recycled material and mimics terrazzo.
2. Hi-Macs Structura's solid surface is made from acrylic stone and adds an element of tactility on the stairs.
3. The Corian Solid Surface collection by CDUK features new colors and patterns that are applicable in high-traffic areas.
4. Amanda Levete Architects created an innovative installation made of Corian solid surfacing material that challenges form and structure.
5. Mulders vandenBerk Architecten showcases an engraved solid surface covering by DuPont.
Kitchen Countertop
A solid surface countertop should be specified to be 1/2"-3/4" thick with a built-up 1.5" thick front edge. Solid surface material can be cut and shaped into different edge profiles which make them a great option for kitchen countertops. It's important to know that each brand of solid surfacing has a different composition. Corian, for example, is a solid surface that uses acrylic and is, therefore, fire-resistant (Class A fire rated). Acrylic and polyester blends are only Class B fire rated and have less depth of color (may show white marks when scratched). There is a wide range of finishes available that range from matte to high gloss. Countertops are installed on top of base cabinets over supports of wood spaced ~24" apart. Seams can be heat-welded or chemically fused for a smooth finish.
Testing Organizations:
Home Innovation Research Labs - https://www.homeinnovation.com/services/certification/solid_surface_materials
Healthy Materials Lab - https://healthymaterialslab.org/material-collections/countertops
Relevant standards through ASTM:
NSF/ANSI Standard 51 - Food Equipment Materials
ASTM G204-21 - Standard Test Method for Damage to Contacting Solid Surfaces under Fretting Conditions
Sources
1. Knowles, E. & Miller, K. (2014) "A Comprehensive Guide for Selecting Interior Finishes."
2. https://www.corian.com/-corian-design-sustainability-
3. https://architizer.com/blog/product-guides/product-guide/solid-surfaces/