Solvay introduces its polyethersulfone for medical applications

Solvay has introduced its high-performance Veradel HC A-301 polyethersulfone (PESU), which offers 
ISO 10993 biocompatibility for healthcare applications

Solvay’s Veradel HC A-301 PESU is a medical-grade polymer that retains heat transparency and stiffness at high temperatures and has been tested under ISO 10993 biocompatibility standards for cytotoxicity, irritation and acute systemic toxicity.

It is the first PESU polymer for use in medical devices to offer a Master Access File (MAF) on record with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and according to Solvay, the material is expected to pass USP Class VI testing, making it a candidate for use in biopharma processing applications.

Solvay’s new healthcare-grade PESU, which was introduced at MD&M West, offers heat resistance that is on par with Radel PPSU and its high flow rate makes it particularly suited for injection molding thin-walled parts and components with complex geometries, according to the company.

Veradel HC A-301 PESU exhibits properties similar to those of polyetherimide (PEI) for strength, transparency, dimensional stability, inherent flame resistance and compatibility with steam sterilisation and chemical sterilants.

Jeff Hrivnak, global business development manager for healthcare at Solvay Specialty Polymers, said: “The healthcare market’s continuing fast-paced growth has strained both the supply and performance limits of competitive polymer chemistries, yet Solvay remains ahead of the industry curve.

“With the introduction of Veradel HC A-301 PESU, we can now offer customers more options for MAF-supported polymers for medical device applications.”

Target applications for Veradel HC A-301 PESU include housings and internal structural components for medical diagnostic equipment, monitoring and filtration devices and biopharma processing applications such as sight windows and quick-connects, according to Solvay.