Covestro develops new polycarbonate for smaller applications

Polymer developer Covestro has developed a new polycarbonate, the Makrolon Rx2235, featuring high-flow properties for healthcare applications including on-body devices and surgical applications.

In the healthcare industry, the growing trend of miniaturisation is impacting how products are designed. Smaller medical devices, such as on-body drug delivery or monitoring applications, call for seamless, unobtrusive and lightweight designs to improve patient comfort and overall compliance. Additionally, smaller devices are often used in surgery to advance patient recovery times.

Pierre Moulinié, global healthcare technology lead, polycarbonates Covestro said: “Makrolon Rx2235 polycarbonate sets a new benchmark for flow length and brings the expected transparency and toughness of polycarbonate to help manufacturers fill very thin walls and accurately replicate intricate features with lower pressures.”

The polycarbonate is biocompatible according to ISO 10993-1 test requirements and designed to be sterilised using gamma or e-Beam methods. It is complementary to Makrolon 2258 polycarbonate, another ideal material for medical devices. This grade is suitable for ETO and steam sterilisation, biocompatible according to many ISO 10993-1 test requirements.

Dough Hamilton, global healthcare segment leader, polycarbonates Covestro said: “Makrolon Rx2235 polycarbonate is a significant addition to our broad range of medical polycarbonates. This is just the latest example of how we continue to innovate and expand our polycarbonate portfolio, giving healthcare OEMs access to the advanced materials they need to design, develop and produce their next breakthrough.”