Richlite: Paper-Based Countertops

Richlite is a paper-based countertop material for kitchens and bathrooms. It's created by treating FSC-certified paper with a phenolic resin, and then baking it to create solid sheets. The countertops have a warm feel and come in a variety of colors. The company says that Richlite does not off-gas, because "the molecules in the resin crosslink with one another to form an inert, solid and highly stable material composite." However, this means the product is not biodegradable and cannot be recycled. Richlite also makes a countertop using abaca "hemp" fibers purchased the Philippines and Ecuador. There are obviously issues with transporting a green materials this far. Perhaps they will eventually be able to buy hemp from North America. The countertops are sold as an installed product through a network of authorized dealers. :: Richlite