It is a high-pressure plastic laminated to a tight particle board core. It is resistant to many common chemicals, except acids, and cleans well. It is available in a wide variety of patterns from solid white to dark blue, although the most common and readily available colors are gray, platinum gray, gray linen, white, and cool white. These tops are very attractive, presentable, and very durable. Laminated Maple is the strongest, the most durable, and the most expensive.
Laminated maple can warp, but it is extremely uncommon.
Capacity rating is typically 3500 lbs. It has good resistance to many common chemicals, but not acids or acetone. It is warp free and splinter-free. It has a very smooth surface. Steel is an enduring standard for benches where abuse, weight, banging and cutting are anticipated.