Life Matters: High-quality PHOENIX™ TPEs for Medical Applications

Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs), as their name suggests, possess both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties. The combined advantages of the mechanical elasticity of elastomers with the ease of processing associated with thermoplastic have made them ideal materials for a bunch of applications. In particular, the desirable combination of technological properties along with its biocompatibility makes TPEs well suited for applications in the medical industry. TPEs can easily replace common materials used in the medical industry that are made of allergens such as latex, as well as avoid potential environmental pollutants such as PAHS, phthalates, BPA (bisphenol A), and heavy metals.
 
PHOENIX series of TPEs are fully saturated styrene block copolymers, available in a wide range of colors and Shore hardness grades. They are 100% recyclable and environmentally friendly. They are sterilizable by autoclave, ethylene oxide, and gamma irradiation for medical use.
 
PHOENIX TPEs approve its biocompatibility by conforming to USP <87>  and ISO 10993.  
Applications that benefited from the features of TPEs are syringe gasket, tourniquet, medical tube, UBT, resuscitator, oxygen mask, etc.

Syringe Gaskets
PHOENIX 07572 is a fully hydrogenated SEBS (Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene) black-colored polymer compound. Its applications can be found in syringe plungers, forming a leakproof seal with the syringe barrel. The elasticity ensures no backflow against the sides of the syringe, and the material does not succumb easily to pressure as the plunger is pushed through the barrel for accurate dosage administration. The self-lubricated property allows for a smooth injection process. This property is retained as the material handles a variety of fluids at different viscosities and chemical compositions of fluids used in healthcare. In cytotoxicity tests, the Phoenix ™ 07 series have tested negative in L-929 fibroblast cells (USP 87). This TPE undergoes sterilization with Ethylene Oxide (EtO) for medical use.
 
Medical Tubes
PHOENIX 04604 and 04704 are translucent TPEs and SEBS-based polymers. It is a high resilience grade with a low melt flow index (MFI). They offer good kink resistance for the free flow of fluids and gases for use in medical tubes. The translucency allows for good visibility through the tubes. The thermoplastic feature makes TPEs heat weldable. These materials meet FDA requirements and are PVC and latex-free. Additionally, they are Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) compliant and conform to ISO10993-5 and ISO 10993-10. In toxicity tests, they induce no cytotoxic effects on L-929 fibroblast cells. In skin sensitization and irritation tests performed on living mammals, the Phoenix 04 series have tested negative, thus guaranteeing biocompatibility.
 

Uterine Balloon Tamponades
The tested and certified biocompatibility of the PHOENIX 04 Series has naturally translated into being ideal TPE materials for more intimate applications in the medical field, such as the choice material in uterine balloon tamponades (UBTs). UBTs are recommended by the WHO as a second-line treatment for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), which is the leading cause of mortality in mothers after childbirth. In developing countries where access to health care is limited, UBTs can help preventable deaths by providing early treatment in stopping postpartum bleeding. The flexibility, durability, and kink resistance of this TPE material are essential for the comfortable fit when inserted inside the body and make up the tube and balloon components in UBTs.
 
Oxygen Masks
The PHOENIX TPEs are fully hydrogenated SEBS with excellent elastic properties. These properties allow for a comfortable fit as oxygen masks, gently moulding to the natural facial curvature without feeling too stiff and unyielding. They are not so elastic that they collapse with the pressure differentials within the internal atmosphere. The cushion around the oxygen mask provides a seal to minimize gas exchange with the outside environment. The transparency allows full visibility and thus, the recipient may be closely monitored.  The PHOENIX 01 series is RoHS compliant and conforms to FDA requirements.   

 
Resuscitators
Thanks to the elasticity and resilience of PHOENIX TPEs, they are the ideal material for resuscitators. When compressed to generate sufficient air pressure, it recovers to its original state soon after the stress is removed. This makes it effortless to operate and increases the efficiency to pump enough air in an emergency. Also, PHOENIX TPEs is anti-skid and can have a firm grip on it.  
 
Learn more about our PHOENIX medical TPEs: 
https://www.phon-tech.com.tw/products/detail/763.html
https://www.phon-tech.com.tw/blog/detail/9/TPE%3A+Why+Does+It+Matter+To+The+Hospital+Bed+Caster.html