Benchtop Repair During many years of use, the stone laboratory bench tops in the analytical laboratory became deeply pitted and uneven over large areas on one end. The appearance of the benches was undesirable and the uneven places were a nuisance for the placement of buret stands, ring stands, and analytical glassware. The east of replacing them was prohibitive so an alternate solution to the problem was found. A filler which was easy to apply, hardened quickly, was inexpensive, and was readily available was applied to the desk tops. The material used was an automotive body filler sold under the trade name of BOND@. The bench tops were filled in and leveled using this material. It was easy to work with, shaped easily with a trowel, and was sanded to a smooth finish when it hardened. The job was completed by applying a commercial bench tap finish. The tops have been repainted several times since then. It has been over 10 years since the bench tops have been repaired and the repaired surfaces have proven to be quite durable. This product is still relatively inexpensive and readily available at most variety and automotive stores today.
Howard P. Wllllams University ol Samhem Mississippi Box 5043 Southern Station Haniesburg. MS 39406
548
Journal of Chemical Education
