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KRAIBURG TPE: New solution for pharmaceutical packaging

Patients and medical professionals usually remember the outer packaging of drugs, due to the variety of the design options. It is often easier and less costly to adjust the outer packaging than to adjust the primary packaging. However, the primary packaging is critical for the patient, as it protects the drug against unwanted environmental influences, alteration and contamination. The new compounds from KRAIBURG TPE have been specifically developed for these uses – for solid and liquid drugs, as well as sprays. Applications that benefit from this new series of materials include seals and gaskets, valves and flexible joints.

The compounds in this new segment of the THERMOLAST® M series have been specially developed for applications that require basic medical approval and have to meet food regulations. In addition, extraction tests in accordance with ISO 8871-1 have been successfully performed; all of the raw materials tested are certified under Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011 and US CFR 21 (FDA) standards. The biocompatibility of the materials series is certified in accordance with ISO 10993-4, -5, -10 and -11, as well as with ISO 8871-1 for parenterals and for devices for pharmaceutical use. The materials also meet the requirements of USP661.1 (plastic materials of construction) as well as of USP661.2 (plastics packaging systems for pharmaceutical use).

Overview of important additional materials properties:

  • The translucent TPEs can be colored
  • Excellent mechanical properties
  • Low compression set
  • Sterilizable: Autoclave 121 °C and 134 °C, ?/? radiation 2×35 kGy, EtO
  • Free of PVC, silicone and latex
  • Free of animal ingredients
Another important criterion: Customers will benefit from the unique service package for medical-grade products, which provides advantages in view of the Medical Device Regulation that will be coming into effect from early summer 2021.

“With many years of experience and the approvals we hold, we are in a good position to compete in the pharmaceutical packaging market. But the human aspect also plays an import part, as customers can rely on our unique medical service package, with consistent materials supply as well as consistent quality and ingredients,” emphasizes Eugen Andert, Product Development Engineer at KRAIBURG TPE.

Publication date: 30/11/2020

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This project has received funding from the Bio Based Industries Joint Undertaking under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 837761.