Bio-based Plastics for Infusion Bags — Frankfurt Research Team Develops Sustainable Alternative to Medical Products From Crude Oil

While BIOVOX develops the recipe for the plastic granulate based on cellulose, sugar cane or corn starch, the adapted biocompatibility tests and physical and chemical safety tests are carried out at Frankfurt UAS.

Biocompatibility Testing

“Proof of biocompatibility is essential for later market readiness, as this is an important aspect for the usability of the material,” says Ilona Brändlin, who leads the biocompatibility analyses using eukaryotic cell cultures in a safety laboratory in accordance with the 3R principle — avoiding animal testing (Replace, Reduce, Refine).

Why It Matters

Medical products like infusion bags are currently almost exclusively made from petroleum-based plastics. A biodegradable alternative from renewable feedstocks would significantly reduce the healthcare sector’s environmental footprint.

Source: ChemEurope