LATI Materials for Medical Devices and Sterile Packaging
Material selection is crucial in the design of medical devices, diagnostic components and pharmaceutical and food packaging.
LATI medical compounds are developed to ensure maximum safety, biocompatibility and dimensional stability, even after intensive sterilization processes.
Many traditional polymers do not withstand the high temperatures and humidity of autoclaving: deformation and loss of performance can compromise their functionality.
To address these needs, LATI has initiated a collaboration with Gammarad Italia to test the effect of gamma irradiation on its materials, verifying their stability, safety and suitability for use in sterile environments.
Gamma Sterilization: a Safe and Versatile Technology
Gamma ray sterilization is an effective and low thermal impact method, ideal for complex or packaged devices.
Compared to autoclave sterilization, irradiation:
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does not cause significant temperature increases,
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allows sterilization of the finished product, even in sealed packaging,
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does not alter the functional properties of the material,
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complies with European Pharmacopoeia regulations (Ph. Eur. §5.1).
Through comprehensive testing conducted at 30, 60 and 150 kGy, LATI has been able to verify the mechanical, thermal, aesthetic and dimensional stability of various medical compounds.
LATI Compound Families for Medical Applications
🔸 LASULF (PSU) / LAPEX R (PPSU)
Transparent amorphous resins with high thermal performance and chemical inertness, ideal for medical and biomedical applications requiring repeated sterilization.
PPSU also offers excellent impact resistance and superior dimensional stability.
🔸 LATIGEA B01 (PLA)
Biobased and sustainable material of plant origin, ideal for single-use devices and eco-compatible projects.
Resists gamma irradiation up to 30 kGy, making it suitable for sterile disposable applications.
🔸 LARTON (PPS)
High-performance technopolymer with excellent chemical and thermal resistance, ideal for functional parts and components subjected to mechanical or environmental stress.
Ensures dimensional stability and absence of color variations after irradiation.
🔸 LATAMID / LATIGLOSS 66 (PA66) and LATENE HT (COC)
Versatile and resistant polymers, used in medical, mechanical and packaging components.
They offer a good balance between processability, performance and competitive cost.
Test Results on LATI Medical Compounds
After treatment with gamma rays, LATI materials showed:
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No significant mechanical variation up to 60 kGy;
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Thermal stability (HDT and Vicat unchanged);
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Unaltered transparency and color for PPSU and PPS;
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Absence of odor and dimensional variations;
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Excellent preservation of elongation at break, a key parameter for durability.
The results confirm that the LASULF, LAPEX R and LARTON families are ideal for applications requiring gamma sterilization without loss of performance or aesthetics.
Main Applications of LATI Medical Compounds
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Medical-diagnostic devices and components for in vitro analysis
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Laboratory equipment and instruments
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Single-use devices (syringes, tubes, dialysis, respirators)
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Pharmaceutical and cosmetic packaging
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Aseptic food packaging for non-pasteurized products
Q&A – Frequently Asked Questions
Which LATI Compounds Best Resist Gamma Sterilization?
LAPEX R (PPSU) and LARTON (PPS) materials offer the best combination of thermal, chemical and chromatic resistance.
Is PLA Suitable for Sterile Medical Applications?
Yes, LATIGEA B01 (PLA) is suitable for single-use applications at 30 kGy, maintaining the main mechanical characteristics.
Does Gamma Sterilization Alter the Color of Materials?
Only minimally: PPSU and PPS materials perfectly maintain transparency and original coloration.
Why Choose LATI Compounds for Medical Applications?
Because they guarantee consistent technical performance, biocompatibility and sterilization suitability, with formulation customization based on the application.
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