When dealing with biologically active materials such as liquid diagnostics, ophthalmic solutions, and human and veterinary pharmaceuticals, two primary concerns are maintaining the sterility of the products and preventing humans from being unintentionally exposed to them. This is especially true when these products are shipped in serum vials that are subject to breakage, making both products and people vulnerable. Glass offers the optical, chemical and barrier properties this application requires but is, unfortunately, fragile and subject to breakage.
Cost savings can be very substantial.
Nalge Nunc evaluated a number of plastics for this application, including polycarbonate, acrylics and cycloolefins. Eastar copolyester was selected for its clarity, chemical resistance and barrier properties, especially its impermeability to oxygen and carbon dioxide. The finished product is nonpyrogenic and noncytotoxic, and the resin contains no extractable alkalis that can cause pH shifts. Eastar copolyester can be sterilized with either gamma radiation or ethylene oxide without clouding or weakening. The finished product is then processed at a gamma irradiation facility to achieve sterilization.