When choosing a bioprocess connection, there are several factors to consider such as size, type of connection, usability and compatibility. Choosing the appropriate material for your process is crucial to ensure optimal performance and prevent any negative effects on the connection.
There are two main types of materials used for bioprocess connections: thermoplastics and fluoropolymers. This piece will outline characteristics and advantages of each material and help you to make an informed choice what type of material is most suitable for your bioprocess connection?
Types of Thermoplastics:
- ABS: An economical medical-grade thermoplastic that can withstand gamma irradiation. It has good physical properties and high resistance to chemical attack.
- Acetal: A strong, lightweight and economical material used for various chemical and mechanical components. It offers high strength and rigidity over a wide temperature range.
- Polyamide (Nylon): Very resistant to wear and abrasion, with good mechanical properties even at elevated temperatures. It also has low permeability to gases and good chemical resistance.
- PEEK (Polyetheretherketon): A highly temperature-resistant thermoplastic with excellent chemical and fatigue resistance. It exhibits superior mechanical and electrical properties.
- Polycarbonate: Resistant to some chemicals and is able to withstand gamma irradiation. It is strong, rigid and the toughest of all thermoplastics, with the additional ability to be autoclaved in some cases.
- Polyethylene: A low-cost chemically resistant thermoplastic that can withstand reasonably high temperatures. However, it is not suitable for autoclaving.
- PPS (Polyethylene Sulfide): Offers broad resistance to chemicals and is considered an advanced engineering plastic.
- Polypropylene: An excellent general-purpose resin that is highly resistant to chemical attack from solvents in harsh environments. It is also resistant to environmental stress cracking.
- Polysulfone: A rigid material with excellent strength, good chemical resistance and the ability to withstand repeated sterilisation at higher temperatures than other thermoplastics. Suitable for applications requiring autoclave and steam sterilisation.
Types of Fluoropolymers:
- PFA: Strong, flexible and transparent it is designed for handling corrosive or ultra-pure fluids. It provides chemical resistance, high purity.
- PTFE: Chemically resistant to most chemicals and solvents, except for some molten metals, sodium hydroxide, elemental fluorine and certain fluorinating agents. It offers chemical resistance and stability at high temperatures.
- PVDF: A tough engineering thermoplastic with a balance of physical and chemical properties. It is mechanically strong, tough, ductile and has a wide useful temperature range.
How to chose the correct bioprocess connection
To select the right bioprocess connection, you need to decide between thermoplastics and fluoropolymers based on your process needs. Knowing the differences between these materials will guide you in making the best choice for your application.
Thermoplastics are flexible and affordable for milder conditions, whereas fluoropolymers provide excellent chemical resistance for tougher environments. Careful consideration of factors such as chemical compatibility, temperature stability and cost will help you to find the most suitable bioprocess connection for your specific application needs.