Covestro has added two new families of the polycarbonate Makrolon: improved low-friction types and maximum strength glass-filled products for drug-delivery devices and surgical instruments, respectively.

The new low-friction polycarbonates Makrolon M204 LF, Makrolon M402 LF, and Makrolon M404 LF ensure that plastic parts in drug-delivery devices slide against one another, without the need for lubricants. The low-friction plastics feature high dimensional stability, are durable, comply with ISO 10993-1 biocompatibility standards, and can be sterilized using different methods, such as gamma radiation. 

"With the new polycarbonates, we are helping medical device companies develop instruments for new trends in drug delivery devices," said Irving Paz Chagoya, healthcare segment manager for polycarbonates in the Europe, Middle East, Africa region at Covestro, in a news release. "In addition to the product advantages, they can also benefit from our more than 50 years of experience in the healthcare industry." All new products are available worldwide.

The new glass-filled polycarbonates are divided into two series with different strength levels. The high-performance series includes the polycarbonates Makrolon M810 GF, Makrolon M820 GF, and Makrolon M830 GF. The high flow series includes the polycarbonates Makrolon M410 GF, Makrolon M420 GF, and Makrolon M430 GF. The latter are used for filling larger or thinner parts with improved productivity. All types are dimensionally stable and biocompatible according to ISO 10993-1. Glass fiber filled polycarbonates are resistant to humidity and temperature fluctuations as well as their mechanical properties, the company reported.