Anti-Static Compounds for Inhalation Devices Ensure Correct Drug Dose
February 10, 2010 – 12:05 pm
Made of SABIC's Stat-Loy material, the inhaler extension tube pictured above deflects tiny drug particles from its walls as a result of its anti-static properties.
At the MD&M West show in Anaheim, California, USA, on 9 February, SABIC launched three additions to its family of LNP Stat-Loy speciality compounds. The new transparent materials provide permanent anti-static properties, which eliminate the need for expensive secondary operations and help ensure repeatability of dosing by virtue of more-efficient aerosol and powder dispensing. The new LNP Stat-Loy specialty compound grades are also pre-assessed for biocompatibility according to ISO 10993 to help manufacturers expedite compliance and time to market.
“SABIC Innovative Plastics is clearly delivering a fast-expanding portfolio of high-end, highly specialised materials to the medical device industry,” says David DeVito, LNP compounds product marketing manager for teh company. “Our new transparent, anti-static LNP Stat-Loy compounds will help drive design flexibility to create efficient inhalation devices that can optimise patient dosages for improved safety, while simultaneously slashing manufacturing system costs.”
Static electricity is a major challenge in the effective use of inhalation devices; tiny drug particles can build up an electrostatic charge causing them to adhere to the device instead of being dispensed to the patient. SABIC Innovative Plastics’ LNP Stat-Loy compounds provide built-in, permanent anti-static performance to assist with the efficient delivery of a full dose of a powder or aerosol to the patient each time, contributing to improved safety and better outcomes. Unlike older inhalers that used coatings to control static charges, the inherent anti-static properties of LNP Stat-Loy compounds avoid the need for costly secondary operations.
The new LNP Stat-Loy compounds are available in three transparent resin systems: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)/acrylic; and Xylex resin, a polycarbonate (PC)/polyester alloy. The clarity of these compounds ensures visibility of device contents while providing attractive aesthetics. The materials can be easily coloured for appearance and drug identification.
LNP Stat-Loy compounds are available in opaque resins such as polyamide 6, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyoxymethylene (POM), and polypropylene (PP), enabling manufacturers to combine opaque and clear components for design or functional purposes.
Tags: LNP Stat-Loy, MDM West, Sabic
