Paper Fibre Composite

This composite material, known by the brand name Richlite, is a solid surface material made from a combination of recycled or FSC certified paper and a phenolic resin. The two materials are layered together and compressed with heat to create a water-resistant material similar to a dense hardwood that can be milled, sanded, routed and joined just as wood is, for use in kitchen countertops, skateparks and more. Richlite is relatively non-porous by comparison to wood but does darken and patinate over time. It is marketed as a ‘green’ alternative to MDF and other particleboards such as chipboard, and whilst this composite material does not contain urea formaldehyde, it is made with its close chemical cousin, phenol formaldehyde.