Materials

Metals, plastics, ceramics, textiles, and other materials are the building blocks of medical products, and are selected for an application based on their properties and performance characteristics. Polyethylenes, polystyrenes, and polypropylenes are commodity thermoplastics, while polycarbonates, acrylics, PET, ABS, and PEEK are considered engineered thermoplastics. Elastomers are synthetic rubber-like polymers featuring viscoelastic properties. Thermosets, such as silicone or rubber, offer similar elasticity and properties, but are composed of organic compounds and cannot be reshaped after the curing process. Metals and alloys often offer strength, durability, conductivity, and heat resistance.