Cape Town, South Africa, 8 April 2025—Absolute Surfaces, a leading provider of innovative surface solutions, is proud to highlight the sustainable advantages of Richlite, a durable and versatile material crafted from resin-infused paper. By offering Richlite to the South African market, Absolute Surfaces is contributing to environmentally responsible design and construction practices across multiple industries.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Richlite’s sustainability is rooted in its composition and manufacturing process. Comprised of approximately 65% Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified or recycled paper content and 35% phenolic resin, Richlite transforms high-grade custom paper into solid panels through a process involving heat and pressure. This method not only repurposes recycled materials but also results in a product with a significantly reduced environmental footprint compared to traditional surface materials.
“Building a sustainable future has always been a part of the Richlite vision,” says a representative from Absolute Surfaces. “Our products and processes help regenerate and sustain the health and vitality of all life for generations to come.”
Versatile Applications Across Industries
Richlite’s unique properties make it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications:
- Architecture and Design: Richlite offers a warm, natural aesthetic and can be used for countertops, wall panels, and millwork. Its durability and ease of machining allow architects and designers to achieve both functional and artistic objectives.
- Marine Industry: Thanks to its water-resistant and decay-resistant qualities, Richlite is suitable for marine environments, providing a sustainable alternative for boat interiors and exteriors.
- Furniture Manufacturing: Furniture makers benefit from Richlite’s machinability and strength, enabling the creation of pieces that are both stylish and long-lasting.
- Musical Instruments: Richlite serves as an eco-friendly substitute for traditional tonewoods in musical instruments. Its consistent density and moisture resistance make it particularly suitable for fretboards and bridges, offering a tone and feel comparable to ebony without the associated environmental concerns.
- Restaurant Solutions: With NSF 51 certification and natural antimicrobial properties, Richlite is ideal for food preparation surfaces in commercial kitchens, ensuring hygiene and safety while withstanding the rigors of a busy culinary environment.
- Exterior Cladding: Richlite’s resistance to weather, fire, and decay makes it a superior choice for exterior cladding, providing buildings with both protection and a sleek, matte finish.
Environmental Certifications and Health Standards
Richlite’s commitment to sustainability is further evidenced by its numerous environmental certifications:
- FSC Certification: Ensures that the paper used comes from responsibly managed forests.
- GREENGUARD Certification: Indicates that Richlite meets stringent chemical emissions limits, contributing to healthier indoor environments.
- Health Product Declaration (HPD): Provides transparency about the product’s material content and potential health impacts.
- NSF Certification: Verifies that Richlite surfaces are safe for food contact and meet public health standards.
By integrating Richlite into their projects, South African businesses and consumers can make environmentally responsible choices without compromising on quality or aesthetics. Absolute Surfaces is dedicated to supporting sustainable development by providing materials that align with green building practices and contribute to a healthier planet.
About Absolute Surfaces
Absolute Surfaces specializes in providing innovative and sustainable surface materials to various industries in South Africa. With a focus on quality and environmental responsibility, the company offers products like Richlite to meet the diverse needs of architects, designers, and manufacturers seeking durable and eco-friendly solutions.