A new polycarbonate/polyester blend developed specifically for wearable medical device applications will be showcased by Covestro (formerly Bayer MaterialScience) at the Compamed trade show in Düsseldorf, Germany, later this month. Makroblend M525 is compliant with an array of international medical device standards, according to the company, notably ISO 10993-5 (cytotoxicity) and ISO 10993-10 (irritation and sensitization).

The durable plastic is impact resistant, dimensionally stable and can be molded into any shape in various shades to satisfy today's design requirements for wearable medical devices, says Covestro, which is headquartered in Leverkusen, Germany. The material is compatible with standard manufacturing processes, such as ultrasonic welding and adhesive bonding.

The trend toward out-patient treatment and homecare is driving the growth of lightweight, wearable medical devices that can perform a number of functions, including vital signs monitoring and drug delivery, without limiting patient mobility. According to a market report from Transparency Market Research, the wearable medical device market will be worth an estimated $5.8 billion by 2019. Plastics are the material of choice for these devices because of their light weight, durability and functional properties.

Compamed, co-located with Medica, the world's largest medical technology trade show, will be held in Düsseldorf, Germany, on Nov. 16 to 19.