Materials

  • PC Resin Puts Smooth Moves on Safety Syringe Device
    A polycarbonate’s internal mould release properties also improve lubricity in the moulded part 
    (March, 2010)
  • The Technologies of Parkinson’s Disease
    Parkinson’s disease has a complex aetiology, and is progressive and difficult to treat. It is, however, a prime example of how different medical technologies can be utilised in efforts to provide relief from suffering. This article discusses and compares these different approaches.
    (March, 2010)
  • First Look - March 2010
    Spot cure system can control four LED heads simultaneously A new UV LED spot curing system from EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering provides a peak irradiance of 9500 mW/cm² with a lifetime of more than 20 000 hours. The OmniCureLX400 can control up to four UV LED heads simult...
    (March, 2010)
  • Dry Natural Rubber Components in Prefilled Syringes
    The release of allergenic proteins from the dry natural rubber (DNR) components of prefilled syringes into aqueous pharmaceuticals may potentially induce an immediate allergic reaction in individuals with a latex protein allergy. This article reviews the current risks to patients in the context of v...
    (March, 2010)
  • The Use of PEEK for Advanced Active Implants
    Implantable polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a biocompatible and stable polymer that offers a variety of advantages over other accepted implant materials such as ceramics, metals and other polymers. Its properties have been assessed to determine its potential benefits for active implantable medical ...
    (March, 2010)
  • Affinity Membranes: A Tool to Remove Pathogens
    Affinity membranes can selectively remove bacteria, endotoxins and viruses from biologically active liquids and water. Their use is set to rise. The mechanism and capabilities of the technology are described.
    (February, 2010)
  • Porous Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives
    Today’s porous adhesives can add functional capabilities beyond bonding to diagnostic and wound-care devices. Their properties and potential applications are described.
    (February, 2010)
  • How Parylene Conformal Coatings Can Enhance Reliability
    Parylenes N and C have been employed for coating a range of ever smaller implantable and external devices. The recent availability of Parylene HT now offers additional advantages for medical device applications. The properties of these materials are reviewed.
    (February, 2010)
  • The Prognosis for Medical Nanocomposites
    Nanocomposites are undoubtedly making an impact in many fields of technology, where profound advantages over conventional composites can be readily identified. Whether they have a role in medical technology is yet to be determined. The answer may lie in the degree of subtly that is brought to the un...
    (February, 2010)
  • Selecting and Using the Right Adhesive
    Choosing the optimum adhesive for a medical device can be difficult. Help is provided here in determining the right adhesive for the application and making it work in production situations.
    (January, 2010)
  • Medical Plastics Help Meet Changing Requirements
    Today’s device designers and manufacturers are challenged to meet a wide and sometimes conflicting range of requirements. These include regulatory restrictions, market perceptions, pressure to contain costs and the changing materials supply landscape. Specialty polymers can provide solutions t...
    (January, 2010)
  • Biomaterials and Real or Imaginary Infections
    Some serious issues over the perceived role of biomaterials and medical devices in the cause and control of infection have been raised. This article discusses some of the implications of claims and counter-claims concerning these matters.
    (January, 2010)
  • The Challenge for Biomaterials in Urology
    Urinary catheters and other urological devices are used in enormous numbers worldwide. Yet, their use increases the patient’s risk of contracting a urinary tract infection. This review of developments introduced to mitigate this risk asks for a basic redesign of the catheter. 
    (January, 2010)
  • Outsourcing Outlook: How to Source a Qualified Converter
    Materials expertise and the ability to adapt to evolving customer requirements should be near the top of your checklist
    (January, 2010)
  • First Look
    Noteworthy new materials, components and equipment suited for medical technology applications
    (January, 2010)
  • A Higher Power
    Small and Efficient Nuclear Battery Uses Liquid Semiconductor
    (November, 2009)
  • Probing the Mind
    Electrically Conductive Polymers Could Lead to Improved Brain Implants
    (November, 2009)
  • Recent Developments in Metal Fabrication
    Machining centre packs power into small footprint   A machining centre from Datron Technology Ltd (Milton Keynes, UK; www.datrongroup.com) is designed as an entry-level machine for applications as diverse as rapid prototyping, foiling and embossing dies, fascias, control panels, PCBs and pr...
    (November, 2009)
  • Optimising Oxygen Monitoring in Centrifuges
    Monitoring gas-phase oxygen in centrifuges is a critical tool for the prevention of explosions and fires. An oxygen system developed by Mettler Toledo Process Analytics AG (Urdorf, Switzerland; www.mt.com) provided a customer with an inexpensive, low maintenance and dependable solution. The company ...
    (November, 2009)
  • Live Cells and Cytotoxicity Assessment
    Problems with the use of conventional cytotoxicity tests to evaluate biological risk with biomaterials are leading to the development of alternative procedures based on cell function. These tests, recently discussed at a conference in China,1 provide an attractive option for the future.  
    (November, 2009)
  • The Dandelion Could Prove to Be Source of Hypoallergenic Latex
    Industry Intelligence: research update Scientists from the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology have genetically modified the dandelion plant, optimising it for natural latex production. Suited for large-scale rubb...
    (October, 2009)
  • New literature, CD-ROMs, Videos and Podcasts
    MIXED MEDIA Thermoset elastomers Custom Molding of Thermoset Elastomers (Munich: Hanser Gardner, 2009) is designed to educate potential customers, explains author Bernie Stritzke, Vice President and General Manager of US-based custom moulder MedPlast. Medical product manufac...
    (October, 2009)
  • Selecting the Right Polymer
    Choosing the correct polymer for a medical device requires a comprehensive look at many aspects of performance and economy. This decision-making process is illustrated here with approaches to choosing materials for an injection moulded steam sterilisation tray for surgical instruments and goods.
    (October, 2009)
  • PEEK Polymer Expands Orthopaedic Material Options
    Industry Intelligence: Joint venture The design of arthroscopic devices and their performance capabilities have been limited by the strength and stiffness characteristics of the metals, ceramics and polymers used in their fabrication. Now...
    (October, 2009)
  • Parylene Coating Improves Prosthetic Liner Performance
    Surface treatment eliminates tackiness without slowing cycle time
    (October, 2009)