University of Adelaide researchers have confirmed a new silica-free alternative to engineered stone with a new product manufactured by the company SilkSurface.

SilkSurface began investigating quality kitchen stone benchtop alternatives that are safe to manufacture as the future of engineered stone became unclear.

“Today we can confirm that this product has been proven 100% silica free through independent testing undertaken by the University of Adelaide’s School of Public Health,” SilkSurface founder Ben Scott says.

“This is an example of the industry responding in an innovative way to regulation, and we look forward to getting the product onto shelves in the new year.”

SilkSurface has been developing an engineered stone product for customers before the Government’s discussion around its future in homes and offices.

With the same look and feel of engineered stone, SilkSurface offers durability, improved stain resistance and excellent heat resistant qualities.

“The ban on engineered stone provided the industry with opportunities to deliver better products for customers and workers, which is what we have done,” Ben says.

SilkSurface can be easily installed as it is compatible with the current machinery used by cabinet makers and stone masons.