Arkema launches medical-grade bio-based PA11 material

Arkema's new polyamide 11 (PA11) for medical applications combines performance and lightweight properties with sustainability
.
Rilsan MED PA11 is based on the company's flagship product and is part of Arkema's portfolio of advanced bio-based recyclable materials
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The product contains amino 11 chemistry derived from castor oil, which can help medical device OEMs achieve their corporate sustainability goals
.

Rilsan MED PA11 is formulated with 65% glass fibers to achieve a tensile modulus of 18.
5GPa
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Arkema says this property makes the material a suitable replacement for metal in surgical tools
.
The company said the product's processability features, such as low mold temperature and injection pressure, help early adopters to easily replace materials and reduce cycle times, while maintaining part integrity
.

Rilsan MED PA11 withstands repeated gamma, steam, electron beam and ethylene oxide sterilization cycles and exposure to harsh chemicals
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Biocompatibility has been evaluated according to USP Class VI and ISO 10993-4, -5 and -10 standards
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The sustainability certification of Rilsan MED PA11 proves that it has a 50% lower climate change impact than comparable fossil-based competitors and reduces the consumption of fossil fuels
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This polymer is recyclable and works best when processed through Arkema's closed-loop or open-loop Virtucycle program
.