TekniPlex Healthcare Launches Industry’s First Bio-Based Medical-Grade PVC Compounds, Enhancing Sustainability in Healthcare Plastics
Wayne, PA, October 3, 2024 – TekniPlex Healthcare has announced the launch of the healthcare industry’s first bio-based medical-grade PVC compounds, a major breakthrough in sustainable medical plastics. Certified by the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification PLUS (ISCC PLUS) system, these new bio-based compounds are poised to replace conventional PVC resins in various healthcare applications without compromising on performance, functionality, or regulatory compliance.
The new compounds, produced with renewable energy and bio-attributed materials, match the chemical composition and functionality of traditional medical-grade PVC. This makes them a "drop-in" replacement for a wide range of injection molded or extruded medical-grade PVC products, such as IV therapy tubing, drip chambers, peristaltic pump tubing, films for trays and pouches, and other medical components.
The introduction of these bio-based compounds comes at a time when the healthcare industry is increasingly focused on eco-friendly solutions to reduce its carbon footprint. TekniPlex Healthcare’s innovation promises a significant reduction in carbon emissions — up to 90% compared to conventional PVC resins and around 60% relative to traditional plasticizers.
"The ability to produce a wide range of medical-grade PVC solutions using bio-based compounds marks a significant leap forward in the sustainability of healthcare materials," said Meg Henke, Global Head of Product Management for TekniPlex Healthcare. "We are proud to be the first to introduce this groundbreaking solution, which allows our customers to reduce their CO2 output while ensuring the same high standards of performance for better patient outcomes."
The bio-based PVC compounds are manufactured at TekniPlex’s facility in Belfast, Northern Ireland. With ISCC PLUS certification, the production and distribution process is fully transparent and traceable, ensuring that the materials used come from renewable and sustainable sources.
This new offering aligns with the healthcare sector's growing commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining the stringent safety and reliability standards that medical products require. The bio-based PVC compounds represent a significant step toward a greener future for medical plastics.
