At MD&M West Conference and Exposition, held from 5 – 7 February 2019 in Anaheim, CA, USA, Covestro presented its portfolio of thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), TPU films, polyurethane-based adhesives and foams, and polycarbonate resins, blends and films, designed for the healthcare industry.
Dental ligatures and medical tubing
Covestro TPU resins are used in several medical applications, including abrasion-resistant Texin RxS285 for dental ligatures. Texin RxT85A and Texin RxT90A can be used for various types of medical tubing due to their flexibility, and can help prevent tube blockages. These grades are also resistant to chemicals, lipids, cleaning agents and bacteria, and offer high clarity for enhanced visual observation.
Skin-friendly medical wearables
Wearable electronic patch devices benefit from breathable Platilon TPU films. Additionally, efficient production from roll to roll can be achieved using skin-friendly adhesive systems and thermo-formable foams based on Baymedix polyurethane raw materials. Covestro offers an overarching solution for wearable patch devices.
Wound dressings and wound prevention
Polyurethane adhesive components from the Baymedix A range are characterised by good breathability and low trauma removal to wound care applications, while Baymedix FP polyurethane raw materials for foams possess good absorption and retention properties. Covestro also offers Platilon TPU films with a mat surface and other TPU materials for modern non-woven layers.
During the show, Covestro also launched Makrolon Rx2235 polycarbonate, a new high-flow grade that can help manufacturers fill very thin walls and accurately replicate intricate features with lower pressures. This material is formulated for a variety of healthcare applications, such as on-body devices, surgical instruments, pen injectors and IV components. The company also unveiled a connected drug delivery device prototype. This model incorporates various elements expected to be used in the future, such as clear and easy-to-understand language for self-administering patients, connectivity with the healthcare provider to ensure adherence to therapy recommendations and dosing, automatic detection of refill needs and more.
In addition, Covestro presented “TrendWatch Materials Matter for Connected Health,” a connected-device eBook developed in collaboration with the distribution business of PolyOne. The free and interactive eBook offers insights into the IoMT (Internet of Medical Things) landscape and implications for material selection and design.