PPSUPolyphenylsulfone
PPSU is an amorphous thermoplastic with excellent impact strength and steam sterilization resistance, high modulus and high heat resistance, and it meets FDA requirements. Its very low moisture absorption makes it a preferred material for steam-sterilized medical instruments, and it is widely used for sterilization trays, dental and surgical instrument handles, and fluid delivery couplings and fittings.
- Heat deflection temp.
- 207℃
- Compliance
- FDA · USP Class VI
Features
Tougher than PSU and PEI
Better impact strength and chemical resistance than polysulfone or polyetherimide (Duratron® PEI).
Very low moisture absorption
Absorbs far less moisture than other amorphous thermoplastics, so it suits instruments that must withstand steam sterilization, the common way to disinfect medical equipment.
Resistant to acids and bases
Excellent resistance to acids and bases, including commercial cleaners, over a wide temperature range.
FDA and USP Class VI
Meets FDA requirements and complies with USP Class VI.
Heat deflection temperature 207℃
Well suited to electronic assembly equipment parts that must resist soldering temperatures.
Bone white, clear on request
Stock shapes are produced in bone white; a clear version is available on request.
Properties
| Property | Unit | Test method | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat deflection temperature | ℃ | — | 207 |
| Density | g/cm³ | — | Pending |
| Tensile strength | MPa | — | Pending |
| Flexural modulus | MPa | — | Pending |
| Water absorption | % | — | Pending |
Typical values; they vary by grade and form. Rows marked “Pending” are still being verified — ask for them with your quote request if you need them.
Applications
- Sterilization trays
- Dental and surgical instrument handles
- Fluid delivery couplings and fittings
- Handles for endoscopic probe positioning ferrules
- Medical wand handles
- Electronic assembly equipment parts exposed to soldering temperatures
Technical notes
Endoscopic probe positioning ferrules: handles for colonoscope probe positioning ferrules are precision machined from Radel® in place of stainless steel.
Medical wands: handles precision machined from Radel® rod serve as structural parts of medical equipment. They combine excellent impact strength with resistance to repeated autoclave sterilization, replacing stainless steel.
Compare with other materials
Side-by-side comparison guides are in preparation. See each material page for sizes and properties.
Frequently asked questions
Can PPSU be steam sterilized repeatedly?
Yes. Its very low moisture absorption makes it a preferred material for steam-sterilized medical instruments, and medical wand handles machined from it withstand repeated autoclave sterilization.
Does PPSU meet medical or FDA requirements?
It meets FDA requirements and complies with USP Class VI.
What colors does PPSU come in?
Stock shapes are produced in bone white, and a clear version is available on request.
How does PPSU compare with PSU and PEI?
PPSU offers better impact strength and chemical resistance than polysulfone (PSU) or polyetherimide (Duratron® PEI).
What is the heat deflection temperature of PPSU?
It is 207℃, which makes PPSU suitable for electronic assembly equipment parts that must resist soldering temperatures.
