Originally Published MDDI November 2001
Epoxy material for small electronic packages. A specialty material suited for small optoelectronic-package designs is available from Rogers Corp. (Rogers, CT; 860/774-9605). The white epoxy molding material is formulated to endure high solder temperatures while retaining the necessary optical, electrical, and mechanical properties. Reflecton epoxy meets the demand for dense packaging and components by reflecting "good" light and keeping out unwanted light, thus enabling thinner package designs. By balancing high reflectivity with opacity, Reflecton makes it possible for design engineers to eliminate the traditional extra epoxy layer and to create more-efficient components. The epoxy displays good IR solder-reflow capabilities; it is moisture resistant and provides lot-to-lot quality and consistency.
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Thermoplastic Polymer Chosen for Packaging Clear copolyester material used in a dental-tool box. The Swiss company Bien-Air SA has selected Eastar copolyester as its new dental-package material. Eastar is manufactured by Eastman Chemical Co. (Kingsport, TN; 423/229-1424); it will be used to create the dental kit's housing, lid, and several separation inserts and clips. The material, a thermoplastic polymer, displays clarity, chemical resistance, and mechanical strength. Bien-Air reportedly chose the material for its attractive product-display properties, its high flexibility, its dimensional stability, and its stress-crack resistance. Eastar copolyester can also be recycled. Additionally, the material complies with biocompatibility requirements set forth by FDA and ISO. |
Dip molding developments explained in product literature. A new brochure is available detailing recent developments in nonallergenic alternatives to natural-rubber latex, with a focus on polyurethane and silicone applications. The brochure is offered by Polyzen Inc. (Cary, NC; 919/319-9599), a manufacturer of radiopaque polymer formulations for medical applications. Topics such as the limitations of latex, polyurethanes used in medical devices, biocompatibility of silicones, properties of polyurethanes and silicones, low-pressure balloon technology, and developments in dip molding and the processing of polyurethanes are addressed in detail. Readers will also find a comprehensive chart comparing the physical properties of dip molded materials, among other helpful guides.
Release films designed for ceramic casting. Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics (Wayne, NJ; 888/225-2717) offers a line of high-performance release films for casting of ceramic passive electronic components. The films are especially useful for components requiring consistent, smooth release and ultrasmooth flat surfaces. Both casting liners and cover sheets are available on a variety of popular polyester base films. Proprietary antistatic coatings and color-identification coatings can be incorporated into custom formulations for both water- and solvent-based ceramic slurries.
Agreement signed for development of drug-coated stent. STS Biopolymers (Henrietta, NY; 716/321-1130) has agreed to develop a Medi-Coat drug-delivery coating for stents manufactured by B. Braun Medical (Bethlehem, PA; 800/359-2439). The coated stents will be designed to inhibit restenosis in patients. Medi-Coat drug-delivery technology makes possible the release of single drugs or multiple-drug combinations over times ranging from days to weeks. The drugs are delivered from the polymer matrix directly to the vessel wall. When used in combination with primer, the Medi-Coat drug-delivery coating will adhere permanently to the stents while providing the necessary flexibility, without cracking or flaking.
Infusion
system made with PC/ABS compound. The AutoDose infusion system produced
by Tandem Medical (San Diego; 858/673-3900) is reportedly the first automated,
portable system that can deliver premeasured intravenous drugs without electricity
or batteries. RTP Co. (Winona, MN; 800/433-4787) provided the material for the
pump housing and internal components: a 2505 PC/ABS compound containing 30%
glass fiber. The compound displays sufficient dimensional stability, resistance
to alcohol (for cleaning), and an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Another
motivating factor for Tandem's choosing RTP's compound was the material's ability
to be formed into large, complex shapes without distortion. The pump itself
features a large, flat, stainless-steel spring that operates similarly to those
found in mechanical watches: as the housing is opened, the spring retracts to
its original position. The stored force then dispenses up to four intravenous
solutions from the bag. If the system is dropped, RTP's compound offers protection
with unnotched Izod impact strength at 3.18 mm of 801 J/m. The compound's flexural
strength is 26,000 psi; its tensile strength is 18,000 psi.
Copyright ©2001 Medical Device & Diagnostic Industry
