Expanded Line of ‘Super’ Soft TPEs for Medical Devices

Kraiburg TPE has extended its range of ‘super’ soft thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compounds by additional hardness degrees. The Thermolast M series, designed for medical devices, is an extension of the company’s next-generation Supersoft TPEs first launched in mid-2021. Their specific properties make these TPEs particularly suitable for prostheses and orthotic devices.

The soft material is characterized by hardness values ranging from 30 to 50 Shore 00 and/or 45 to 70 VLRH. While TPEs in this hardness range tend to oil out and produce sticky surfaces, Kraiburg TPE’s extremely soft compounds are said to make a convincing impression with their pleasantly dry and velvety feel. Combined with their elastic properties, these TPEs are often used for applications with one-sided compressive loads such as orthopedic damping elements. Tests in accordance with the ISO 10993-10 standard also confirm that permanent contact with the skin surface does not lead to and/or cause allergic reactions.

Supersoft compounds are mainly processed using standard injection molding. In developing the extremely soft TPEs, the focus was on achieving a flawless dosing capability and/or flowability of the granules, uncomplicated processing as well as easy ejection. The additional option of using the materials in 3D printing opens up new avenues toward customized therapeutic products.

The properties of these Thermolast M compounds also correspond to those of medical-grade plastics in accordance with the VDI 2017 standard and have passed the biocompatibility tests in accordance with ISO 10993-5 (cytotoxicity) and ISO 10993-10 (skin sensitization) as well. In addition, the compounds comply with the ISCC PLUS requirements and thus enable customers to use TPEs with a reduced product carbon footprint (PCF) also in strictly regulated markets such as the medical sector.