With constant arrivals and departures, airports demand a wall lining material that can withstand high volumes of traffic. Consider a wall’s repeated contact with luggage, carts, and service equipment, and their impact on a material.
When planning interiors for airports and transportation hubs, architects and designers seek materials engineered for long-term durability, cleanability, and appearance retention. At the same time, they face pressure to balance performance with design flexibility.
Fortunately, Max Compact Interior phenolic panels allow for freedom of creative expression in high-traffic interiors while delivering the necessary long-term performance.
Phenolic panels are engineered through a high-pressure, thermosetting manufacturing process that produces a dense, homogeneous core and an exceptionally resilient surface. With built-in durability, phenolic panels can be used in a wide range of applications without raising concern for location or maintenance, giving architects more time to focus on design and peace-of-mind when it comes to longevity.
One key consideration when choosing a cladding solution in airports is the ability to withstand frequent impact without denting or cracking. Repeat collisions from rolling suitcases, baggage carts, and cleaning equipment are unavoidable in corridors and concourses.
Phenolic panels are engineered to absorb and resist these impacts, ensuring design integrity and reinforcement of a project’s investment.
In transportation environments, cleaning cycles are inevitable. Consider the physical contact from passengers, luggage, and equipment scuffs, food and beverage spills, and much more.
While the non-porous surface of phenolic panels resists moisture and stains, it can even withstand harsher cleaning solvents, like acetone, when needed.
Consider the following example of permanent marker being easily removed:
One of the most visible advantages of phenolic wall lining is its ability to retain color, finish, and surface integrity despite constant use. Scratches, scuffs, and fading are significantly reduced compared to conventional finishes, ensuring that public-facing spaces maintain a polished, professional aesthetic long after installation.
Offering a balanced blend of durability, design flexibility, and performance reliability, Max Compact Interior is commonly specified for wall lining throughout airport terminals, concourses, and shared public areas. Their versatility makes them suitable for both high-impact zones and visually prominent design features.
Beyond a wide range of decor and finish options, in these areas, Individualdecor custom digital printing can support branding, wayfinding, and visual storytelling without sacrificing durability.
Some of the highest levels of foot traffic and rolling luggage impact occur in hallways and corridors. Phenolic panels provide a resilient barrier, protecting walls from scuffs and collisions while maintaining a refined, intended design vision.
High-contact zones require materials that are easy to clean and resistant to scuffs and abrasion. Phenolic panels maintain a consistent appearance even under constant use, reducing visible wear over time.
Phenolic cladding promotes aesthetic creativity, allowing designers to introduce color, texture, or warmth in static spaces without compromising performance. The material’s ease of fabrication opens the door to exciting, unique accents and applications.
The Santiago Airport in Pudahuel, Chile, features Max Compact Interior panels in a number of different applications, creating a beautifully connected and cohesive design throughout the interior.
Moisture resistance, hygiene, and ease of cleaning are essential in airport restrooms. Max Compact Interior delivers superior chemical resistance and provides a non-porous surface that stands up to frequent cleaning cycles.
One of the most practical applications of Max Compact Interior phenolic panels is durable, hygienic washroom partitions.
Baggage claim zones experience repeated impacts from carts, luggage, and equipment. Phenolic wall cladding protects vulnerable walls while maintaining a clean, cohesive design aesthetic.
With access to extensive decor ranges, including solids, woodgrains, and material finishes, phenolic panels allow designers to tailor each commercial environment while ensuring long-term durability behind the scenes.
Individualdecor printed panels also provide opportunities for prominent branding recognition and one-of-a-kind designs.
Dining space clad with Max Compact Interior phenolic panels inside the Airport of Calgary in Canada.
Utility areas benefit from phenolic panels’ resistance to damage, moisture, and cleaning chemicals. Custom digital printing can also support wayfinding, labeling, or operational graphics.
The benefits of phenolic cladding panels meet a range of demands presented by transition areas, all while maintaining high design intent.
Through concentrated traffic and close physical contact, phenolic cladding maintains structural and aesthetic integrity even in these confined, heavily used spaces.
Transportation shuttles and railways see wall-to-wall crowds and large luggage, which can push against walls and leave marks and scratches. As with any transportation space, dirt, grime, and graffiti must be considered, too.
With high-quality, durable Fundermax phenolic panels, you can prevent damage and remove any marks, dirt, or unwanted stains easily.
Phenolic panels are engineered to withstand repeated impacts from luggage, carts, wheelchairs, and service equipment, helping prevent dents, cracks, and surface damage common with traditional wall finishes.
The panels’ non-porous surface resists stains, moisture, and chemicals, allowing panels to be cleaned quickly and efficiently. Even after years of service, surfaces can be restored to a like-new appearance with routine maintenance.
The high-pressure manufacturing process creates a dense, homogeneous material that resists warping, delamination, and surface degradation even after years of use.
Because phenolic wall lining resists damage and requires minimal maintenance, it can significantly reduce repair, replacement, and downtime compared to more fragile alternatives.
By minimizing repair frequency and replacement needs, phenolic wall lining can lower long-term operational expenses compared to other materials.
Airport interiors must perform reliably under constant pressure while creating welcoming, intuitive spaces for travelers. Phenolic wall lining solutions offer a balance of durability, cleanability, and design flexibility that aligns with the unique demands of aviation facilities.
If you’re designing or renovating an airport terminal, concourse, or transportation hub, Fundermax’s team can help identify the right wall lining solutions for each zone, ensuring long-term performance without limiting design vision.