LCP compatibility with EO sterilization

[mcardin8]

Hi,
We are designing a device that needs to be EO sterilized. There are some long, slender parts (~10" X 0.2" X 0.2"). We've been looking into Vectra A130, which is a 30% glass filled LCP, which has great dimensional stability/minimal shrink.

However, when looking at TIR17-2008, there is little data on the compatibility of LCPs with EO sterilization processes. Does anyone have more insight? If this isn't a good material, can anyone recommend a similar material that is EO compatible?

Thanks for all your help! Let me know if you have any questions.

Regards,
Mike

 

[cloa]

What? A Liquid Crystal Polymer? Don't assume people know your acronyms.

 

[mcardin8]

Yes, sorry it is a Liquid Crystal Polymer: Ticona Vectra A130.

 

[prdave00]

Ticona's guide for Vectra states "Key properties, such as high flow, stiffness and resistance to sterilizing radiation and sterilizing gases..." on page 10. I think that gets a little closer to your answer. My advice is contact Ticona directly and ask.

I'm curious why you want to go with ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization over something quicker like gamma or e-beam radiation.

 

[mcardin8]

Thanks I will contact them. I've also contacted a molder/designer who has used it for that application before.

We are using EtO sterilization because there are other sensitive materials that would degrade when exposed to radiation.

 

[prdave00]

Let me guess PTFE.