Eco Paperstone
The solid surface material
This article focuses on Eco Paperstone and provides you with a detailed environmental analysis of this reconstituted hard surface material.
Enabling you to make an informed decision when choosing your next worktop or shelving unit. Paperstone is a good alternative to natural hard surface materials like stone and granite. That said is is processed & manufactured which lowers the eco credentials.
Description
♦ Eco Paperstone is a sustainable composite material which is similar in appearance to soapstone.
♦ The main material is recycled paper.
♦ Properties are similar to other solid surface materials.
♦ Appearance is slightly mottled with a smoothly polished surface.
♦ Available in a wide range of colours.
♦ This material has the same warmth properties as timber.
♦ Now also manufactured from bamboo fibres and organic cashew nut shell resins.
Uses
♦ Suitable for interior use; worktops, vanity/desk/table tops, shelves and window sills.
Advantages
♦ Good stain resistant properties.
♦ Resistant to heat up to 176 degrees Celsius / 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
♦ Excellent water/moisture resistant properties – only 1% absorption rate.
♦ Dense nature gives good bacteria resistant properties.
♦ Worktops cannot be damaged with knife marks.
♦ This is workable like timber.
Disadvantages
♦ Although stain resistant, this material is not 100% stain proof.
Embodied Energy
♦ This manufactured material helps reduce the demand for quarrying and extraction of natural stone and mineral – lowering the level of embodied energy.
♦ An excellent alternative that has lower embodied energy levels than other manufactured composite materials.
♦ Transportation and distribution from overseas increase embodied energy.
♦ Manufacturing process reduces water usage and waste.
Source/Origin
♦ Manufactured in United States of America.
Renewable
♦ Yes
Environment & Health
♦ Resins are water based, contain non-petroleum based phenols and oil made from cashew nut shells.
♦ Non toxic and no added formaldehyde.
♦ No toxic VOCs released.
♦ Vegetable based oils and waxes are used as a surface finish.
Performance
♦ Extremely durable and dense.
Maintenance
♦ Easy to clean using mild, non toxic cleaning agents and a soft cloth.
♦ Any damaged caused can be retouched with light sanding.
Recycled content
♦ Contains between 50 to 100% post consumer recycled paper and post industrial paper waste.
♦ Look for paperstone that carries the Forest Stewardship Council's (FSC) recycled content label (100% recycled content only).
Recyclable
♦ Yes into lower grade chippings.
Disposal / Biodegradable
♦ Yes
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