Foster Corporation Appointed Distributor of Solvay’s KetaSpire PEEK and AvaSpire PAEK Polymers

Foster Corporation, a leader in performance polymer solutions in the medical and pharmaceutical marketplace, has been appointed as a North American distributor of Solvay’s KetaSpire* PEEK and AvaSpire* PAEK polyketone-based polymers for the North American medical market. This will include unmodified polymers and standard color formulations currently offered by Solvay. Foster can also offer custom compounding of these polymers, including custom colors, for specific application requirements.
 
PEEK and PAEK medical grade polyketon-based polymers are high flexural modulus and high strength polymers that offer extreme heat resistance and excellent hydrolytic stability. They maintain their mechanical properties in reusable applications when exposed to multiple steam sterilization cycles as well as other sterilization techniques. Both polymers can withstand over 1,000 steam sterilization cycles without significant loss of properties. In addition both polymers are biocompatible (USP Class VI and ISO 10993) and biostable. Common applications include surgical tools, tubing, and connectors, as well as healthcare metal replacement applications.
 
Foster is currently a distributor in the North American healthcare market for Solvay’s Radel* polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), Udel* polysulfone (PSU), and Ixef* polyarylamide (PARA).
 
“Solvay’s standard grades of PEEK and PAEK polyketone-based polymers, along with their sulfone based polymers, are in high demand for reusable medical devices. Additionally, device companies are increasingly evaluating material formulations that provide differentiated colors and performance characteristics,” said Larry Johnson, executive vice president at Foster Corporation. “Our expertise in polymer distribution of standard grades and custom compounding specialty formulations is unique and provides the most comprehensive polymer solutions in the industry.”    
        
*KetaSpire, AvaSpire, Radel, Udel, and Ixef are registered trademarks of Solvay.
 
An international chemical and advanced materials company, Solvay assists its customers in innovating, developing and delivering high-value, sustainable products and solutions which consume less energy and reduce CO2 emissions, optimize the use of resources, and improve the quality of life. Solvay serves diversified global end markets, including automotive and aerospace, consumer goods and healthcare, energy and environment, electricity and electronics, building and construction, as well as industrial applications.
 
For more than 25 years Foster Corporation has been serving medical device manufacturers with technology and service in custom biomedical polymer compounding. Within two ISO 13485:2003- and ISO 9001:2008-certified facilities, Foster offers formulation development and production of polymer enhancements including radiopaque fillers, custom colors, and other specialty additives. The company is based in Putnam, Conn.