Foster's Patented Nano Technology Enhances Polymer Performance

Putnam, CT (April 2005) - Foster Corporation has been issued a United States patent for nano technology that enhances the mechanical properties of polymer composites. A unique combination of nano particle and cross linking technologies increases strength, elongation, and flame retardant properties in the polymer matrix. This technology is now commercially available under Foster's NanoMed– brand.

Foster's patented technology incorporates nano clay fillers with a chemical ingredient, such as a cross linking agent, in thermoplastic or thermoset polymers. The synergistic effect of such formulations results in flexural modulus increases up to 50% while retaining more than 50% of the elongation properties in some polymers. While early tests have proven exceptional benefits in nylon polymers and nylon block copolymers (i.e. Pebax®), this technology is applicable to a host of engineering and commodity thermoplastics such as polycarbonates, polyesters, polysulphones, polyketones, polyvinylchlorides, polyethylenes, and polypropylenes. Potential thermoset polymer candidates include polyurethanes and epoxy polymers.

In the medical device industry, this patented technology is uniquely suitable for intravascular or balloon type catheter applications that utilize Pebax or nylon shafts with flexible distal tips. The combination of nano particles and cross linking in the shaft material increases its stiffness relative to the tip for improved torque and control during procedures. Previous approaches for increasing shaft control have included increased reinforcement additives in the polymer, braided reinforcement structures, or multi-layer shaft extrusions. Yet, these approaches often increase shaft diameter and wall thickness. Foster's new technology allows for increased performance in thinner wall sections without substantial reductions in toughness and elongation of the shaft.

According the Foster president Larry Acquarulo, "Medical device companies are challenging material suppliers to provide more performance with less material. This allows them to develop smaller devices for less invasive procedures. Foster's NanoMed– compounds, and this patented nano technology in particular, are meeting this challenge by providing significantly increased polymer performance in small, thin sections. Beyond medicine, this nano technology offers tremendous potential in applications related to food packaging, wire and cable, sporting goods, and automotive."

Foster Corporation is a global market leader in design, development and delivery of specialty polymer solutions for biomedical markets. The company also provides a broad range of material, process and design contract engineering services for these target markets. For more information, please call 860.928.4102.


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Dan Lazas
610.458.2038