Reinforced nylon alloys can withstand gamma sterilisation

They are suitable for reusable instruments or components that must withstand gamma, e-beam and ethylene oxide sterilisation.

Minimally invasive procedures are increasingly used throughout the healthcare industry. New procedures require instruments, fixtures and components that do not interfere with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computerised Axial Tomography (CAT), fluoroscopy, and x-ray imaging. Metals are not suitable and plastics often require reinforcing additives, such as glass fibre, to provide sufficient strength for structural components. However, these traditional additives are too large for molding or extruding intricate device components with thin wall sections. Unreinforced, high strength plastic options, such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), are often cost prohibitive.

Nanomed MAX compounds incorporate nanoclay particles into a high strength nylon alloy. These platelet-shaped particles, less than a nanometre thick and up to 1,000 times greater in surface diameter, provide reinforcement at the molecular level. This enhances strength and rigidity of the polymer without hindering flow into thin sections. Nanomed MAX compounds include less than 10% by weight nanoparticles resulting in 15% more tensile strength than unmodified PEEK, for approximately half the price.

“Unlike PEEK, Nanomed MAX compounds do not require the high temperature injection molding or extrusion equipment,” said Larry Johnson, Executive Vice President, Foster Corporation. “These alloys can be processed using standard mold and barrel heaters that are commonly used for nylons and polyesters.”