BLOG | 5 November 2024
High Performance Polysulfone for Healthcare Applications
Author Insights from our Engineers at Bamberger Amco Polymers
See How BASF's Ultrason® (Polysulfone) Product Line Elevates the Healthcare Industry
One of the major suppliers we work with at Bamberger Amco is BASF. An industry leader in polymer development since the 1930's, they're renowned for their engineered plastics.
Ultrason®, a polyarylsulfone (PPSU, PSU, PESU) that's one of BASF's most sought-after thermoplastics, is used in high-quality parts thanks to its high resistance to chemicals, superheated steam, and stress-cracks.
Ultrason®'s excellent material properties make it ideal for safety and/or regulatory-driven applications, including water filtration systems, kitchenware, and especially medical devices.
Quality Control: An Essential Part of Healthcare-Grade Plastics
FDA registration and ISO 13485 certification are both required to develop and manufacture healthcare-grade plastics. Each healthcare application has unique demands, but properties like aesthetics, water absorption, lubricity and wear-resistance are common considerations.
Perhaps the biggest way healthcare-grade plastics are put to the test is sterilization. Steam sterilization of reusable medical devices calls for materials resistant to water-degradation at temperatures ranging from 250 F (121 C) to 273 F (134 C) for 15 to 30 minutes.
PSU (polysulfone) withstands repeated steam sterilization without sacrificing performance. That makes it a great choice for healthcare applications like the following:
