The high capacity and unique recyclability of PVC indicate that hospitals should start with PVC for plastic medical device recycling programs. Almost 30% of plastic medical devices are made of PVC, which makes this material the most commonly used polymer for making bags, tubes, masks and other disposable medical devices.
The remaining share is divided among 10 different polymers. This is one of the main findings of a new market research conducted by a global market research and management consulting company. The study also predicts that PVC will maintain its number one position until at least 2027.
PVC is easy to recycle and has a wide range of uses. Equipment that requires soft and rigid parts can be made entirely of one polymer-this is the key to the success of plastic recycling. The high capacity and unique recyclability of PVC indicate that hospitals should start with this plastic material when considering recycling plans for medical plastic waste.
Relevant personnel commented on the new findings: “The epidemic has highlighted the key role played by disposable plastic medical devices in preventing and controlling hospital infections. The negative impact of this success is the increasing number of hospital plastic waste. We believe recycling is Part of the solution. Fortunately, the most used plastic in healthcare is also the most recyclable plastic, so we urge hospitals to start using PVC for recycling activities.”
So far, the existence of CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic, reproductive toxicity) substances in certain PVC equipment has been an obstacle to medical PVC recycling. It is said that this challenge has now been resolved: “For almost all applications, alternative plasticizers for PVC are available and in use. Four of them are now listed in the European Pharmacopoeia, which is a medical product in Europe and other regions. Developed safety and quality guidelines.”
Post time: Sep-22-2021
