How Does PTFE Replace Conventional Plastics in Medical Applications?

The PTFE industry is projected to grow in the coming future. APAC is projected to showcase the significant growth in the PTFE industry, considering the volume. It is led by the rising production of electrical and electronic devices, ascribed to the macroeconomic growth in the region.

Moreover, the growing preference for polytetrafluoroethylene coatings for cables, insulations, wires, semiconductors, and electrical tapes is projected to fuel the material demand in near future.

The rising medical applications of the PTFE fuels the industry's growth. This material has replaced conventional plastics in numerous medical applications, due to its biocompatibility in nature. In recent years, the industry players have largely invested in R&D and launched improved PTFE-based products.

For instance, Bal Seal Engineering Inc. acquired the USP Class VI compliance for SP-23 and SP-121 seal materials. Such materials provide protection to components of pumps, catheters, powered surgical tools, and other medical equipment, as well as prevent leakage.

Under the type segment, the granules capture a massive share of the industry, accounting for around 55%. The granular variant has a higher preference compare to the powdered variant, led by the difficulty of mixing solids with fine powders to develop a uniform blend.

In addition, expensive granules are preferred over powdered PTFE. The granular material provides ease in compression molding for tubes, rods, and sheet production.

Under the application segment, the coatings capture a significant share of the industry, in terms of volume. It is predicted to reflect massive growth in the near future. The burgeoning demand for PTFE-coated valves, rings, and seals in the industrial processing sector, results in the growing demand for plastic coatings.