Fluoropolymers may be the solution to the Medical Glass Shortage

The shortage of glass has been an ongoing issue. Experts say the price of glass is on the rise as global supply chain issues continue throughout the world.  The glass shortage affects all industries that rely on glass for their containers, but right now, with the convergence of annual flu, the emergence of new COVID variants (Omicron), and the outbreak of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV) in children, the medical field is in dire need of glass for vials.

Silicon, which is one of the materials that is used in glass manufacturing has been in short supply for over a year.  Medical vials are made of Type I borosilicate glass, and this form uses the most silicon. The decreases in the recycling rates during the pandemic, are additionally hurting the production of glass vials.

Fluoropolymers such as FEP, PFA, and PCTFE are great alternative materials for glass. These fluoropolymers are superior to conventional plastics. Their inert, non-reactive, and unmatched durability makes their properties ideal for use in the medical industry. These fluoropolymers are also non-stick, ensuring the product does not adsorb to surfaces. They are also virtually impervious to chemical, enzyme, and microbiological attacks. All the benefits of FEP, PFA, and PCTFE make these fluoropolymers a perfect material to create vials out of, especially since they are injection moldable.

At Performance Plastics, we have extensive experience in injection molding fluoropolymers. We have developed proprietary tooling and processes enabling the injection molding of small, thin-walled, complex parts. Our expertise in fluoropolymers and injection molding can be the solution to the shortage of glass.

For more information on how to use fluoropolymers as your glass shortage solution contact Rich Reed, our Vice President of Sales and Marketing, at (513) 321-8404 or [email protected].