Solvay Specialty Polymers USA, LLC, has standardized the color range of its Radel polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) resins, offering a range of standard opaque colors for the healthcare industry.Solvay’s Radel PPSU is utilized for demanding reusable applications including medical and dental instruments, sterilization cases, trays, and lids, and medical equipment.
“This launch further supports our mission as a full-service supplier to medical equipment and device makers,” said Maria Gallahue-Worl, global business manager for healthcare for Solvay Specialty Polymers. “This expanded color palette gives medical device manufacturers new opportunities in terms of design, aesthetics, and branding”.
In addition to unique branding opportunities for medical OEMs, these colored Radel PPSU resins provide healthcare professionals with a quick visual reference for identifying instrument types and sizes. Solvay introduced the standard colors in response to market demand for PPSU products that are readily available and cost-effective for the specification of new healthcare applications. These injection molding and extrusion grades are available globally with reduced lead times and reduced minimum order quantities, according to Gallahue-Worl. Other color options will be available through a wide network of custom compounders who specialize in Radel PPSU.
Radel PPSU is a super-tough thermoplastic with high heat resistance, exceptional hydrolytic stability and excellent chemical resistance. It can withstand over 1000 cycles of steam sterilization without significant loss of properties. It is inherently flame retardant and is resistant to bases and other chemicals. Radel PPSU is also compliant with ISO 10993-1 for non-implantable applications.
Solvay Specialty Polymers is a global leader in the development of sulfone polymer technology, launching Udel polysulfone nearly 45 years ago. In addition, Solvay’s experience as a key materials supplier in the healthcare field spans more than 20 years. The company is a leading manufacturer of high-performance plastics, offering a broad range of materials for reusable and single-use healthcare instruments and medical devices. More recently, Solvay has successfully introduced its line of Solviva Biomaterials and offers them for use in a range of implantable devices.
