New Non-phthalate Plasticiser From Eastman Now Available in Europe

US headquartered polymer manufacturer Eastman Chemical Company today announced at the Compamed trade fair in Düsseldorf, Germany, that Eastman 168 (trademarked) SG non-phthalate plasticiser is now available in Europe. Eastman 168 SG is an enhanced grade of the industry-leading Eastman 168 non-phthalate plasticiser. This new plasticiser is specifically targeted for flexible PVC medical devices, as well as other highly sensitive applications including toys, child care articles and food contact products.

In light of impending regulations in Europe, some original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are proactively making the switch to a non-phthalate plasticiser for their medical devices. Denmark and France already are working toward a ban of phthalate plasticisers, including those used in medical applications. In addition, with research being done on ortho-phthalate plasticisers, the European Union has issued a sunset date on the use of di-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) by 2015 under Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH).

For medical device OEMs, Eastman 168™ SG is a non-phthalate plasticiser that offers the best combination of price and efficiency in the market. This product may be used as an alternative to DEHP and tris (2-ethylhexyl) trimellitate (TOTM), and it is more efficient than using some of the other non-phthalate plasticisers available. Eastman 168 SG has extensive toxicological and regulatory profiles while remaining cost-efficient. The plasticiser has outstanding performance properties, low-temperature flexibility and excellent non-migration properties.

“We are excited to bring to the European medical market a new non-phthalate plasticiser alternative that OEMs can easily start using in their medical products even before regulations mandate the change,” said Martin Stimpson, global market development and key account manager, Adhesives and Plasticizers Business Unit, Eastman Chemical Company. “As a customer-driven company and global material supplier, Eastman is dedicated to providing the products and services its customers want and need.”

Eastman 168™ SG offers assurance of supply continuity and the most stringent quality assurance protocols, which are necessary for sensitive applications in the medical market. The plasticiser has high product purity, and customers also gain access to proprietary ISO 10993 and USP Class VI test data. In addition, the plasticiser is registered under REACH.  

Eastman’s versatile portfolio represents the broadest range of non-phthalate plasticisers in the industry. As North America’s largest producer of non-phthalate, general-purpose and specialty plasticisers, the company brings decades of experience and comprehensive technical support to help customers make switching to Eastman 168™ SG simple.

To learn more about Eastman 168™ SG, visit Eastman Chemical Company at Stand 8aP04 in Hall 8a during Compamed.

For more information about Eastman 168™ SG, visit www.EastmanPlasticizers.com.