Foster Introduces 73 Color Concentrates for Medical Devices

Foster Corporation, a developer of custom polymers for medical devices, is introducing a new line of color concentrates using U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 21CFR 73 subpart D pigments for medical device applications. In support of medical customers in early stages of product development, Foster’s MediBatch color concentrates will be available in quantities as low as a single pound.
 
Medical devices often use custom colored components for branding, aesthetics, or functional purposes. Color concentrates, blended with unpigmented polymers are widely used as an economical alternative to pre-colored formulations for injection molded or extruded plastic components. Pigments used for device components that contact the human body, such as catheter tubing, require documentation to be submitted as part of device approval by the FDA. Use of pigments that have been previously evaluated for use in medical devices may reduce the FDA review time for a new device and expedite the approval process.
 
MediBatch color concentrates are formulated using FDA 21CFR 73 Subpart D listed pigments and a polymer carrier that is compatible with a wide range of base resins, including nylons and polyurethanes. Twelve standard concentrates, including green, red, yellow, blue, violet, black and white, are available from stock in one-, five- and 10-pound quantities. Custom colored concentrates are also available on a made to order basis.
 
“MediBatch color concentrates were specifically created with medical device product development in mind. By using FDA 21CFR 73 Subpart D pigments and packaging in small quantities they are ideal for use in early stage development and prototyping operations.” said Alicia Bergeron, Foster’s regulatory, safety and environmental manager. “Single pound quantities available from stock can pigment up to 25 pounds of natural polymer, and allow for engineers to rapidly prototype new components without the need to purchase large amounts of material.”

Based in Putnam, Conn., Foster Corporation provides custom biomedical polymer compounding services to the medical device industry.