Avient Introduces Medical-Grade TPEs Formulated Without Animal Derivatives

Materials supplier Avient Corp., formerly PolyOne, has added eight new grades to its healthcare portfolio of Versaflex thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs). The injection-moldable Versaflex HC 3810 series is formulated without animal derivatives and offers a range of durometers to serve a variety of medical device applications, said the company.

“OEMs and medical molders need high-performing material solutions for use with various medical device and healthcare applications,” said Jean-Paul Scheepens, General Manager, Americas, Specialty Engineered Materials at Avient. “Rooted in the technology of our proven Versaflex portfolio, this series delivers reliable performance and expands on material options formulated without animal derivatives, an increasingly common requirement for healthcare products.”

Commercially available in North America, the new specialty Versaflex grades are translucent and offer excellent colorability, said Avient. They are suited for overmolding on polypropylene. Applications for the 20 to 50 Shore A grades include ergonomic grips, strain relief components, handles, gaskets, and seals. Grades in the 60 to 90 Shore A durometer range can be used for IV connector caps, diagnostic testing devices, endoscopic caps, and similar applications.

Versaflex 3810 materials withstand gamma and autoclave sterilization and comply with ISO 10993-4 and -5, REACH SVHC, and RoHS.