New polycarbonates will target wearable devices

Bayer MaterialScience has introduced a new polycarbonate blend developed specifically for wearable medical devices - reflecting the growing trend towards consumer-targetted healthcare devices.

Makroblend M525 polycarbonate (PC)/polyester provides a high level of chemical resistance against body lotions and other chemicals while also meeting the testing requirements of ISO 10993-5 (Cytotoxicity) and ISO 10993-10 (Irritation and Sensitisation) for biocompatibility.

“Medical device and health care OEMs have relied on materials and technical expertise from Bayer for decades, and our materials continue to be integral to many of the most innovative medical devices on the market today,” said Bruce Fine, market segment leader – medical, North America, Bayer MaterialScience LLC. “Our launch of Makroblend M525 PC/polyester is just the latest example of how Bayer constantly looks for opportunities to deliver even greater value to meet the evolving needs of OEMs, molders and, of course, end-users.”

This new plastic grade exhibits excellent toughness, mouldability and dimensional stability and can be colour-matched to a wide variety of colors to satisfy the design criteria wearable devices require. The new grade offers improved overmoulding performance in devices with features such as molded-in windows or tubes. Standard assembly methods such as ultrasonic welding and adhesive bonding also work quite well.

In addition to Makroblend PC/polyester blends, Bayer’s engineering plastics portfolio includes medical-grade Makrolon polycarbonate, Apec high-heat polycarbonate, Bayblend PC/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) blends, and Texin thermoplastic polyurethanes, many of which meet the requirements of FDA-modified ISO 10993-1. The company also offers Dureflex thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) films for breathable wound care, and Bayfol multilayer films for medical packaging.