A styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer for medical technology applications was showcased at the Fakuma exhibition, held from 14-18 October (www.fakuma-messe.de), by BASF (Ludwigshafen / Germany; www.basf.com). The transparent “Luran” HD is the first SAN to be offered in conjunction with BASF’s healthcare and diagnostics services, which provides technical and biocompatibility testing and support, and complements “Terlux” HD (MABS), the company’s first transparent plastic for medical technology. Luran HD offers increased resistance to temperature and UV light, while Terlux HD offers better impact-resistance. The new material is already available in commercial quantities.

A powder version of the company’s Luran HH (high heat) a SAN that is dimensionally stable under heat and is intended specifically for PVC processors was also displayed. Since PVC is often processed in powder form, Luran HH, which functions as a heat-stabilising component, can easily be added and is employed in the production of PVC profiles, tubes and panels.

Kitchen and bathroom applications for BASF’s first antimicrobial acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate copolymer (ASA) were described. In order to prevent the growth of bacteria on plastic surfaces, Luran S BX 13042 incorporates an additive containing silver, inhibiting the growth of a range of micro-organisms.