MOSCOW (MRC) -- Elasto (Amal, Sweden) has expanded the range of Mediprene TPE compounds for plunger seals in single-use syringe, as per GV.
New Mediprene grades are sterilisable with gamma, EtO and steam. Representative grades have passed cytotoxicity tests according to ISO 10993-5 and biocompatibility tests according to USP Class VI. The materials are latex free, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions. They are resistant to many fluids used in the healthcare environment and offer low compression set helping to maintain seal integrity. Available hardnesses range from 43 to 73 Shore A.
The grades are available as translucent or coloured compounds, made from medical grade raw materials. The colour masterbatch supplier has been selected with care, ensuring that not only the pigments and carriers are compliant but also that the masterbatches are manufactured under rigorous controls with regard to traceability, consistency and change control. Alongside their material advantages, because of the cost and speed at which they can be manufactured, Mediprene grades are being specified as an alternative to thermoset rubber. They require no vulcanisation and are 100% recyclable. Consistent shrinkage also allows for tight dimensional tolerances with fewer process steps and without the need for additional operations such as trimming.
Niklas Ottosson, medical technical manager for Elasto commented: "Over recent years there has been a rise in demand for single-use syringes and a clear move from rubber to TPE for plunger seals. To support this growing market, we have expanded our range of Mediprene TPEs specifically designed for syringe plunger seal applications".
As MRC wrote before, in October 2015, Elasto Sweden AB has announced plans to invest in a new thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) production line at their facility in Amal, Sweden. The plans include twin screw technology, advanced raw material controls, supporting sub-systems and analytics equipment. The new line is expected to come on stream in 2015.
Elasto Muller Kunststoffe supports the thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) market with a sophisticated and innovative product range developed by highly qualified material experts. The company's products combine the performance of thermoset rubbers with the processing ease of plastics to deliver enhanced design possibilities to a diverse range of markets, including automotive, medical, caps and closures, construction, toy and household. ELASTO is part of the compounding business area of HEXPOL, one of the world's leading polymer groups.
MRC