Plastic Resins for Medical Use
Plastic medical devices are manufactured using various types of plastics, each chosen for its specific properties and suitability for the intended medical application. Some common types of plastics used in medical devices include:
Start a Conversation
Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene is a versatile thermoplastic used in medical devices due to its flexibility, durability, and biocompatibility. It comes in different forms, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE). PE is used in items like syringes, tubing, and prosthetic limbs.
Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene is a robust and heat-resistant plastic commonly used in medical devices requiring excellent chemical resistance. It is often used for containers, closures, and surgical trays.
Polycarbonate (PC)
Polycarbonate is a transparent, impact-resistant plastic suitable for medical devices requiring clarity and toughness. It is used in items like blood oxygenators, incubators, and protective eyewear.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
PVC is a widely used plastic in medical applications due to its low cost, flexibility, and ease of processing. It is commonly used for tubing, bags, and IV sets. However, the use of PVC has raised environmental and health concerns due to the release of phthalates during its production, leading to efforts to find alternatives.
Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)
PMMA, also known as acrylic, is a clear, lightweight plastic used in medical devices like intraocular lenses and dental restorations due to its optical clarity and biocompatibility.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
PET is a strong, transparent plastic used in medical devices like blister packaging for pharmaceutical products and blood collection tubes.
Silicone
While not a traditional plastic, silicone is a rubber-like material with excellent biocompatibility, flexibility, and heat resistance. Silicone is commonly used in medical devices like catheters, wound dressings, and implants.
Polyurethane (PU)
PTFE, also known by the brand name Teflon, is a non-stick, chemically inert plastic used in medical devices like catheters and coated medical instruments.
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
PTFE, also known by the brand name Teflon, is a non-stick, chemically inert plastic used in medical devices like catheters and coated medical instruments.
Polylactic Acid (PLA)
PLA is a biodegradable plastic derived from renewable sources such as cornstarch. It is used in certain disposable medical devices to reduce environmental impact.