Medical polymer compounds by Colorite
Wayne, Pa. (April 25, 2018) — Recent regulatory and market drivers, including cost pressures, are generating a material choice debate about polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and rubber materials, according to Colorite, a Tekni-Plex business unit specializing in custom medical-grade compounds.
Many companies are trying to proactively address new regulatory dynamics, both in the United States and in many other global regions. Pressure is being applied by healthcare systems that are already implementing strategic initiatives for phthalate-free patient environments. TPEs are being viewed as a replacement for PVC in applications where phthalate- or plasticizer-free materials are desired. Globally, IV therapy producers are among the first in the medical device industry to transition from PVC to TPE materials.
More recently TPEs also have been used to improve ergonomics, protection and/or function. TPEs are ideal for overmolding which provides a softer touch and improved ergonomics (such as grip) for a variety of surgical tools and devices. This can improve instrument control and fatigue reduction during long procedures for medical professionals.
Colorite’s Cellene® line of TPEs are suitable for a wide variety of uses in medical devices, packaging and other regulated markets. Cellene® compounds are formulated to be silicone, latex, phthalate, halogen and PVC-free using FDA-compliant raw materials to meet USP Class VI and ISO 10993 standards.
For additional information on why TPE compounds are a viable option for medical applications, please visit the website.
About Colorite
Colorite is a custom compounder specializing in medical-grade formulations. The company is known as a global leader in clear polyvinyl chloride (PVC) compounds for medical devices. Engineered for extrusion, injection molding, blow molding and film applications, the compounds are formulated to provide exceptional clarity, superior heat stability and excellent processability for a wide variety of medical device applications. For more information visit www.tekni-plex.com/our-businesses/colorite/.
About Tekni-Plex, Inc.
Tekni-Plex is a globally-integrated company focused on developing and manufacturing innovative packaging materials, medical compounds and precision-crafted medical tubing solutions for some of the most well-known names in the medical, pharmaceutical, personal care, household and industrial, and food and beverage industries. Tekni-Plex is headquartered in Wayne, Pennsylvania and operates manufacturing sites across eight countries worldwide to meet the needs of its global customers. For more information visit www.tekni-plex.com.