Solvay launches new high performance PESU for medical devices
Solvay Speciality Polymers has launched a new, polyethersulfone-based (PESU) medical grade polymer for use in demanding healthcare applications.
New Veradel HC A-301 polyethersulfone is said to retain transparency and stiffness at high temperatures and Soplvay says it offers processing advantages over other commercial high-heat, transparent polymers.
The new grade has been tested under ISO 10993 biocompatibility standards for cytotoxicity, irritation and acute systemic toxicity. The material, says Solvay, is expected to pass USP Class VI testing, making it an excellent candidate for use in biopharma processing applications. In addition, these compliance records can facilitate the design and regulatory application process for medical device OEMs, thereby accelerating product time to market.
Veradel HC A-301 PESU complements Solvay’s portfolio of transparent, sulfone-based polymers, including Radel polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) and Udel polysulfone (PSU), which have long been used in advanced healthcare applications. Solvay’s says the new PESU grade offers heat resistance that is on par with Radel PPSU; and its high flow rate makes it particularly suited for injection moulding thin-walled parts and components with complex geometries. Its stiffness is said to be the highest of all medical-grade sulfone polymers.
Solvay says the PESU is a viable alternative to polyetherimide (PEI) as it exhibits properties similar to those of PEI for strength, transparency, dimensional stability, inherent flame resistance and compatibility with steam sterilisation and chemical sterilants. Veradel HC A-301 PESU’s lower inherent colour and higher flow rate may prove advantageous in some applications, the company added.
Target applications for the material grade include housings and internal structural components for medical diagnostic equipment, monitoring and filtration devices, and biopharma processing applications such as sight windows and quick-connects. The material is currently available worldwide for sampling in healthcare applications.