29 Feb 2008
DSM expands biomedical portfolio
DSM Biomedical today announced the start of a development program of polyester based Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE) for use in medical devices. In the coming years DSM Biomedical will work together with medical device companies to develop tailored TPE material grades. These grades will be specifically aimed at making orthopedic devices perform better or, alternatively, at enabling the development of novel products and therapies.
As a result of the aging population and other demographic factors such as growing obesity problems, the market for orthopedic devices is one of the fastest growing segments in the industry. Key trends in this market include the need for advanced materials that are resistant to wear, fatigue and offer processing flexibility and design freedom. Leo Smit, Business Director Implant Solutions at DSM Biomedical: “DSM’s position as one of the leading suppliers of polyester based Thermoplastic Elastomers, supplied under the trade name Arnitel®, gives us in-depth application and process knowledge on this material. This excellent starting-position will enable us to play a leading role in the development of tailored biomedical materials with wear resistant, shock absorbing, elastomeric properties.”
DSM is already active in the orthopedic market with Dyneema Purity®, an ultra-strong lightweight fiber technology. Orthopedic sutures made with Dyneema Purity® fibers are now the gold standard in rotator cuff repair and are increasingly used in other orthopedic applications. Furthermore, DSM Biomedical has set up a research and development program focused on UHMWPE grades with optimized material properties for use in Total Joint Arthroplasty.
To realize DSM’s ambitions in the Emerging Business Area of Biomedical Materials, the company has made significant investments of resources and expertise to develop new materials solutions and to work with partners to turn these technologies into end products. Through innovation, DSM Biomedical aims to play a key role in developing better biomedical materials for caregivers and improving outcomes for patients.
Reader enquiries
DSM Biomedical
Postal address:
P.O. Box 18
6160 MD Geleen
The Netherlands
Visiting address:
Koestraat 1
6167 RA Geleen
Netherlands
Notes for editors
About DSM Biomedical
To meet the upcoming needs of the medical and biotech industries, DSM Biomedical builds on the expertise and strengths of DSM in polymers, coating technology, materials science and life sciences. DSM’s current biomedical portfolio includes hydrophilic coating technology for catheters, guidewires and stent delivery systems and Dyneema Purity®, a specially developed, high performance polyethylene fiber technology, which has been developed specifically for use in medical applications, such as orthopedic implants. Furthermore DSM Biomedical is focusing on developing materials and systems around implantable devices for the musculoskeletal and vascular systems and drug delivery devices in musculoskeletal, vascular and ophthalmic application areas. Through DSM Venturing, DSM has equity stakes in several companies focusing on key areas of the biomedical market. These include Oxford Performance Materials Inc. (OPM) and Xylos Corporation (Xylos). OPM develops and commercializes implantable grades of PolyEtherKetoneKetone (PEKK), a polymer which belongs to a family of engineering plastics that show mechanical properties that are much closer to the properties of human bones than the often used metals. Xylos is a medical device company dedicated to delivering superior biomaterials solutions for the treatment, repair and replacement of human tissue. Based on its proprietary and versatile biocellulose technology, Xylos is developing a series of innovative products for musculoskeletal repair that eliminate the risks and limitations associated with human and animal-derived materials. For more information, visit www.dsmbiomedical.com.
DSM – the Life Sciences and Materials Sciences Company
DSM creates innovative products and services in Life Sciences and Materials Sciences that contribute to the quality of life. DSM’s products and services are used globally in a wide range of markets and applications, supporting a healthier, more sustainable and more enjoyable way of life. End markets include human and animal nutrition and health, personal care, pharmaceuticals, automotive, coatings and paint, electrics and electronics, life protection and housing. DSM has annual sales of almost EUR 8.8 billion and employs some 23,000 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in the Netherlands, with locations on five continents. DSM is listed on Euronext Amsterdam.
Arnitel® is a registered trademark of Royal DSM N.V.
Dyneema®, Dyneema Purity® and Dyneema®, the world's strongest fiber™ are trademark(s) (applications) owned by Royal DSM N.V.
Related images
DSM Biomedical is developing tailored TPE material grades for orthopedic devices.
Editorial enquiries
Inge Massen-Biemans
DSM Biomedical
Anouk Luykx
EMG