Smithers Rapra expert to share medical elastomers knowledge at US summit

Smithers Rapra, a specialist in rubber, plastics and composites testing, has announced that Alison Schweda (pictured), principal scientist for extractables and leachables chemistry, will give an overview on determining the compatibility of elastomer products for pharmaceutical and medical device packaging at the 2018 Thermoplastic Elastomers US Summit in Cleveland, OH, June 27-28.

Schweda will present an “Overview of Extractables and Leachables Testing of Elastomers in Medical Applications” at 9:30 am on Thursday, June 28. She will focus on sample preparation, analysis, and common additives for critical packaging/medical device components, as well as regulatory guidance on assessing the impact of changing a drug product’s immediate packaging materials.

“Alison is a perfect fit for a conference that provides great insight into the future of thermoplastic regulations and markets,” said Jim Popio, vice president, Smithers Rapra. “Her understanding of chemistry, specifically as it relates to pharmaceutical and medical packaging production, will be an incredible asset to all who attend this year’s summit.”

The Thermoplastic Elastomers US Summit provides application-driven papers from TPE market leaders, networking opportunities, and access to key industry players. This gathering of the industry's leading material manufacturers, compounders, tier one and two suppliers, and end users of thermoplastic elastomers will dive into high-growth end use applications, such as healthcare, consumer electronics, industrial applications, automotive, and a number of new opportunities.

Schweda has over a decade of experience in chemistry and research management in the pharmaceutical industry. As Principal Scientist at Smithers, she is primarily responsible for process implementation, execution, and conduct of projects and studies, as well as sample preparation, extraction, analysis, and result reporting. Schweda is based in the analytical services lab located in Akron, Ohio, which supports extractables and leachables studies for the medical device, pharmaceutical, and food industries. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Hillsdale College.

Covering medical devices or pharmaceutical delivery/packaging from material to final product performance, packaging integrity and regulatory submissions, Smithers offers a unique set of services that can assist clients through the development process. Extensive technical expertise and a global laboratory footprint supplements this differentiated service offering. Learn more about Smithers’ medical and pharmaceutical testing services here.