Applied Silicone Corp., a supplier of long-term implantable silicones for the medical device and healthcare market, has introduced Ultra-Soft LSR (liquid silicone rubber) products for the implantable materials market. Ultra-Soft LSR is formulated specifically for long-term implantation in the human body (>30 days) and provides a very soft liquid silicone rubber measured in Type OO and Type OOO durometer scales, according to the company.

Soft silicone elastomers historically have been good candidates for soft-tissue simulation, cushioning, and dampening, but were limited to non-reinforced gel systems that are prone to fracture and require a thin elastomer membrane to enhance integrity.  Applied Silicone’s Type OO and Type OOO Soft LSR’s have a soft feel and greater mechanical strength with minimal surface tackiness.  Soft LSR’s have low to medium viscosities suitable for knife-coating films, injection molding soft parts with complex geometries, or solvent less dip-casting of thin membranes.

“Applied Silicone’s Ultra-Soft LSR’s are very versatile and can be customized for many unique applications,” said Norm Riley, technical marketing director at Applied Silicone.  “Our staff draws upon decades of experience in material science, medical materials, and device manufacturing in order to support our customers’ most demanding applications.”

Soft LSR’s are fully biocompatible as tested under the ISO 10993 standard for permanent contact with the body or long-term implantation. A conveniently organized compendium summary of physiochemical and biocompatibility properties is available in electronic format for ease of data retrieval.

Applied Silicone is based in Santa Paula, Calif. Products include high purity silicone gels, elastomer dispersions, adhesives, LSR, high-consistency silicone rubber, lubricant coatings, primers, fluids, sheeting, and custom formulations.