Teknor Apex develops portfolio of TPEs as silicone alternatives

Teknor Apex has launched a portfolio of Medalist thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) as medical-grade alternatives to liquid silicone rubber (LSR). 

These materials provide a cost-effective, easy-to-process alternative to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) and feature exceptional flexibility and rubber-like elasticity for medical applications.  

Medalist TPEs are excellent candidates for tubing used in drug delivery, gas supply and chest drainage.  

Teknor Apex states that the benefits for this material choice with medical tubing include a low level of extractables, low drug interactions, excellent throughput rates, and a wide operating temperature range. 

Unlike LSR, Medalist TPE is completely recyclable during processing, which can result in manufacturing efficiencies. In addition, no refrigeration is needed to store TPE. 

The company also claims this material is economical, saying Medalist TPE is five times more cost-effective than LSR, considering LSR is prone to longer cycle times, complicated moulding processes, and higher production costs.