TP Surfacing & Coatings recently completed a specialised flooring installation at GlaxoSmithKline’s (GSK) Medicines Research Centre in Stevenage. The project, commissioned by Emcor UK, aimed to address the unique challenges of a laboratory environment regularly exposed to liquid nitrogen spillages. In this context, a high-performance flooring solution was needed to ensure long-term durability and resistance to the extreme conditions faced by the laboratory.

The laboratory in question experiences frequent liquid nitrogen spills, which pose significant risks to standard flooring materials. Regular flooring systems would be prone to rapid deterioration under such conditions, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. As a result, GSK required a robust flooring solution capable of withstanding chemical, thermal, and mechanical stress while offering long-term protection and performance.

TP Surfacing & Coatings recommended a Vinyl Ester Resin flooring system manufactured by Flowcrete. This specialised material was selected for its exceptional resistance to chemical exposure, thermal stress, and heavy-duty mechanical demands. The vinyl ester resin system was particularly suited to the laboratory’s needs, providing essential nitrogen resistance to ensure the flooring remained intact and functional despite regular liquid nitrogen spills. In addition to this, the system offers UV resistance, protecting the flooring from deterioration caused by exposure to natural light, and provides protection for both concrete and metal structures from chemical or mechanical damage.

The project was completed successfully, with the flooring installed on time and to a high standard. Our client Emcor UK, expressed their satisfaction with the quality of the work delivered by TP Surfacing & Coatings. The installation is expected to significantly reduce the need for future maintenance, ensuring the laboratory remains operational and safe for staff.

This collaboration between TP Surfacing & Coatings, Emcor UK and GSK demonstrates the importance of choosing the right materials for demanding environments like laboratories. By opting for Flowcrete’s Vinyl Ester Resin system, TP Surfacing & Coatings was able to deliver a solution that guarantees safety, durability, and long-term performance in the face of chemical and thermal challenges.