It may not leap tall buildings in a single bound, but a new polypropylene (PP) compound, Centrolab HTTM/PP-HT, is said to be a great leap forward into engineering thermoplastics’ terrain for the polyolefin. Polypropylene normally reaches its maximum operating temperature at about 100°C, maybe even 110ºC, but this new compound, developed by and used in semifinished goods from Centroplast Engineering Plastics GmbH (Marsberg, Germany), is said to be thermally and dimensionally stable up to 140ºC (284º F).
This added heat stability could open up applications in the medical device industry, for instance, where steam sterilization at temperatures of 132ºC and higher are needed. The material also is resistant to acids and chemicals, says Centroplast, which adds that independent testing of the material has been completed. The compound complies with foodstuff regulations to BfR/FDA and USP Class VI.
Swiss medical implants supplier bricon, part of the medimondi Group, already has specified this material in the molding of support trays for spinal implants (see photo).Polypropylene is already gradually creeping into applications requiring higher temperature stability, as evident in its use now in air intake manifolds (click here for story). —[email protected]
