DSM, a global leader in biomedical materials science and regenerative medicine, announced it has developed a novel ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) membrane technology. Initial use of the proprietary membrane technology will be in peripheral stent graphs used to treat peripheral artery disease. Dyneema Purity membrane technology is a new entrant into the material space and serves as an alternative to currently used ePTFE films (polytetrafluoroethylene). The membrane is a biocompatible and inert material that is easy to handle and can be processed at lower temperatures, resulting in easier handling and lower cost tooling requirements. It has a higher ratio of strength versus volume compared to ePTFE, which enables medical device companies to manufacture medical devices with smaller profiles, enabling treatment of patients with minimal invasivesurgery. In addition, the membrane enables creation of a laminated structure; the porosity resulting from this allows the membrane to accept coatings anddrugs. Furthermore, the membrane can be combined with other materials such as Nylon, PET, TPU and UHMWPE fiber such as DSM’s Dyneema Purity fiber itself.

For more information, visit www.dsm.com