Chemically resistant, thin-walled, and transparent
SABIC introduces LNP™ CRX Copolymers for durable and sustainable solutions in medical technology
With SABIC's LNP™ CRX PC copolymers, Plastoplan offers a unique combination of robust chemical resistance, impact strength, thin-wall transparency, dimensional stability, and processability. In device applications such as clear covers, screens, and display lenses, these new materials offer significant advantages over established polycarbonates and co-polyesters when exposed to disinfectants or aggressive chemicals. Available options include the LNP™ ELCRES™ CRX1314TW copolymer or its bio-based equivalent, LNP™ ELCRIN™ CRX1314BTW copolymer. Both types demonstrate biocompatibility according to ISO 10993, with the sustainable variant additionally featuring a CO2 footprint reduced by up to 42 percent, based on a life cycle assessment (LCA). Thus, the new SABIC materials contribute to sustainability goals by helping customers develop and manufacture devices with optimized service life.
Since SABIC introduced the first LNP ELCRES CRX copolymers, the demand for chemically resistant materials has continued to grow. This has driven the development of innovative thin-wall transparent materials. The now further improved chemical and impact resistance can help reduce premature damage and failures. Furthermore, the enhanced design freedom for thin walls allows for integrating sustainability into devices from the outset, as designers can reduce the overall dimensions of components. In summary, SABIC's Specialties business unit, by expanding the LNP CRX portfolio, has created new opportunities regarding disinfectant resistance and other increasing demands in medical technology, combining these with the crucial topic of sustainability. With these thin-wall, transparent copolymers, medical technology manufacturers can pursue a holistic approach to developing diagnostic devices and wearables, enabling longer service life, lower system costs, and reduced environmental impact.
LNP CRX: Resistance to Aggressive Disinfectant Chemicals
Like all LNP CRX materials, the new types are characterized by resistance to aggressive disinfectant chemicals such as quaternary ammonium compounds, alcohols, and peroxides. These can lead to stress cracking in displays and covers of medical devices. Furthermore, these materials offer polycarbonate-like transparency in thin-wall geometries from 0.8 mm to 1.0 mm, and translucency at greater thicknesses, along with high impact strength over a wide temperature range (down to -40°C), excellent dimensional stability, and good processability. Both types meet the UL94 HB standard for horizontal burning.
LNP ELCRES Copolymers – No Compromises
The new LNP ELCRES CRX1314TW copolymer and its bio-based version can help avoid the compromises associated with conventional transparent materials. Amorphous materials like PC offer excellent clarity and dimensional stability for tight part tolerances but typically have insufficient chemical resistance to aggressive disinfectants. While semi-crystalline materials provide higher chemical resistance, they exhibit significant shrinkage and warpage, which can negatively impact part tolerances. Amorphous co-polyesters may not be compatible with harsh disinfectants and can involve processing compromises that may lead to potential production inefficiencies.
