Evonik launches world’s first bioresorbable copolymers for medical device applications

Specialty chemicals company Evonik claims to have launched the world’s first bioresorbable portfolio of polylactide-polyethylene glycol (PLA-PEG) copolymers for use in implantable medical device applications.

Resomer PLA-PEG copolymers combine the hydrophobic properties of PLA polymers with the hydrophilic properties of PEG. The portfolio can replicate the mechanical strength of standard Resomer polymers but degrade up to six times faster as a result of the triblock structure. Additionally, the unique combination of strength and rapid degradation means that medical device companies can develop a new class of bioresorbable implant devices for use across application areas.

These Resomers can be customised and similarly to other Resomer products, Resomer PLA-PEG copolymers are easy-to-process, compatible with all relevant technologies, and provide long-term stability. 

Jean-Luc Herbeaux, SVP and general manager of the healthcare business line of Evonik commented: “Medical devices represent an important focus area of Evonik’s growth engine health and care.

“Our new line of Resomer PLA-PEG copolymers is the latest expansion of our market-leading portfolio of functional biomaterials, surface modification technologies and application services to help customers enhance the safety, biocompatibility and performance of their implantable medical devices.”

Andreas Karau, global head of biomaterials for Evonik added: “Evonik is pleased to have addressed this unmet market need for bioresorbable polymers that combine outstanding strength with rapid degradation.

“We look forward to customers leveraging our new line of Resomer PLA-PEG copolymers to enhance device performance across a range of application areas including wound closure and paediatrics.”

This portfolio will expand Evonik’s ability to help medical device customers enhance the safety, biocompatibility and performance of their implantable products.