Lubrizol has launched a new medical-grade material—Tolerathane TPU—that is engineered to meet the evolving demands of implantable medical devices. Compared to other TPU materials, Tolerathane TPU offers unparalleled tolerance to harsh biological conditions while maintaining superior softness, mechanical resilience, and seamless integration into standard thermoplastics processing compared to currently available TPU materials, according to the company.

Designed to help medical device OEMs reimagine the possibilities for implanted technologies, the thermoplastic nature and polyurethane mechanical properties of TOLERATHANE TPU create new opportunities for advanced device design for various applications. The product’s performance attributes closely align with the technical requirements of neuromodulation and cardiac leads, structural heart implants, percutaneous catheters and cables, and implanted textiles.

Performance benefits include:

• Boosted biostability: Superior tolerance to oxidative and hydrolytic attack compared to currently available TPU materials
• Softness without sacrifice: Enhanced biostability at the softest durometers while offering good mechanical properties
• Scaled for customization: Seamlessly integrates with typical thermal processing methods and offers tunability for optimized performance
• A thermoplastic alternative to silicone: Enables thinner wall designs that support device miniaturization and design flexibility—transforming innovation in implantable medical device development.

“Lubrizol brings foundational expertise to its specialized medical-grade TPU portfolio,” said Jennifer Green, senior global technical business development manager and commercial lead for Tolerathane TPU. “As a pioneer in thermoplastic polyurethane innovation, Lubrizol continues to meet the evolving needs of modern healthcare, delivering materials that enable innovative medical devices and developing the next-generation TPU for implantable medical devices.”

A Berkshire Hathaway company, Lubrizol is a science-based company whose specialty chemistry delivers sustainable solutions to advance mobility, improve well-being, and enhance modern life. Founded in 1928, Lubrizol has global reach and local presence, with more than 100 manufacturing facilities, sales, and technical offices and more than 7,000 employees worldwide.