Foster launches laser marking technology for plastic used in medical devices

Polymer solutions specialist Foster Corporation has launched a laser marking technology for plastic materials used in medical devices called LazerMed.

The product can be used as tubing, catheter shafts, labware and medical equipment.

Laser marking is a contact-free process that provides for printing without solvents, with no pre-treatment of substrates required. In addition, there are no consumables (inks) required, as the laser marking pigments are melt blended into the polymer at the compounding stage. This  technology has no effect on the sterilisation process and can be added to a polymer as a masterbatch. The result is a permanent solution that can be used for injection moulded, extruded, and blow moulded components.

The LazerMed technology is manufactured using laser marking pigments. These pigments provide a printing platform that can be used in the majority of plastic materials, including transparent and opaque materials, used in medical device applications. Laser marking pigments are weather durable, available for high temperature applications and have passed USP Class VI testing for biocompatibility.

Tim Largier, manager of Research & Development at Foster, said: “LazerMed laser marking technology benefits medical device manufacturers by offering an eco-friendly cost-effective alternative to traditional printing technique. It benefits users at the delivery level by providing a permanent and safe method for labelling medical devices and components.”