At MD & M West 2020, SABIC launched its new LNP ELCRES CRX polycarbonate (PC) copolymer series, providing a new chemical resistance method for medical device manufacturers. Darpan Parikh, head of global product management for SABIC LNP Specialty Compounds, told MD + DI that the use of this new material will enable medical device manufacturers to extend the product life cycle, thereby achieving warranty expectations and reducing replacements and claims.
"To prevent infections related to healthcare, hospitals are using strong detergents, and the risk of medical devices is that the material breaks and discolors. Therefore, customers have been asking us how we can improve chemical resistance." Darpan Parikh explained.
SABIC`s answer is the new “on-the-go” polycarbonate copolymer series, which can replace traditional PC homopolymers, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and polyester and copolyester resins and their mixture. He said that this new material "has a strong corrosion resistance compared to existing materials."
For example, "Polycarbonate is an amorphous material designed to have a high impact material, but if corrosive chemicals are placed on it, it may crack, crack, or discolor." Darpan Parikh said. "For example, peroxides and other disinfectants will erode the PC over time." He added that the most durable equipment housing and handheld diagnostic equipment are made of PC materials.
Parikh said that for LNP ELCRES CRX copolymers, SABIC "uses a proprietary process to modify the polymer backbone of our existing copolymer resins" to achieve chemical resistance. He added: "Then we mixed this modified copolymer with other polymers or additives to achieve the desired properties."
To help medical device manufacturers deal with these new amorphous and semi-crystalline mixtures, SABIC provides processing guidelines for use in existing injection molds. "It is not much different from ordinary materials, but there are special processing methods," Parikh said. "Similar shrinkage allows us to apply this PC copolymer to existing tools and equipment." The LNP series also supports The compounding of special materials can also help develop the correct design.
Parikh said that SABIC tested the new LNP ELCRES CRX series of polycarbonate (PC) copolymers according to ASTM D543, using more stringent standards than those listed in the test method. In addition, "customers often have their own set of tests," he said, "we have invited existing customers to test according to their needs, and based on the results, we have seen strong interest from customers."
To address medical device manufacturers ’concerns regarding warranty claims, Darpan Parikh said:“ Cracks and discoloration can be attributed to the frequency of cleaning with chemicals. However, if cracks and discoloration occur during the warranty period, the business must basically replace These parts. "He said that by using LNP ELCRES CRX polycarbonate (PC) series copolymers, the company should not" see cracks or cracks during the warranty period. "
Also on MD & M West, SABIC experts discussed material solutions for exposure to healthcare disinfectants on the technical forum on February 11. SABIC special product business development manager Manish Nandi and SABIC senior business manager Nithin Raikar of LNP resins and compounds introduced the theme: "Keeping medical equipment clean and durable: PC copolymer technology innovations have improved chemical resistance to hospital disinfectants. "
Parikh said that the LNP ELCRES CRX polycarbonate (PC) copolymer series is being tested in accordance with ISO 10993. The raw materials of these grades have been pre-screened for biocompatibility (such as cytotoxicity).
He added that their chemical properties are also applicable to other health care fields that want to improve corrosion resistance, such as home medical devices and consumer electronics. He said the new material can also resist sunscreens, lotions and other corrosive chemicals.