BioInteractions is using CompaMed’s global stage this week (Nov. 17-20) to launch its Surface-Active Materials (SAMs), a new generation of surface treatments delivering superior performance without compromise in durability or safety.

The first technology within this category is Assist, a highly lubricious and durable coating. It provides standout lubricity instantly, long term durability under high-stress conditions and ultra-low particulate performance for medical devices, BioInteractions executives said. Developed through advanced polymer engineering, this one-layer coating system addresses a critical industry need for low profile, biocompatible coatings with a low coefficient of friction (typically <0.003) and provides greater reliability at the point of care.

“Hospitals around the world are facing increasingly complex challenges,” Growth Vectors Consulting Founder/CEO Joe Rowan said. “One example is the rapid growth of miniaturized, minimally invasive procedures that rely on smaller devices to navigate tortuous pathways and deliver therapy safely. To enable these procedures, I see a growing need for hydrophilic coatings that combine superior lubricity with high durability—ensuring delivery systems perform reliably in high-stress, high-movement environments without particulation or delamination. This will be essential to support the next generation of minimally invasive therapies.”

At the heart of this increasing requirement are technology systems like SAMs. “Surface-Active Materials are the highest performing, robust, durable surface treatments that enhance medical device performance, particularly in demanding environments where friction, movement and stress are critical factors,” BioInteractions Commercial Director Arjun Luthra stated. “These surface treatments, like our Assist technology for example, improve the biocompatibility and mechanical activity of the device, helping ensure consistent high performance over time. Overall, these materials form a durable surface that maintains leading performance requirements with integrity under expansion, movement, bending and sterilization.”

At the core of SAMs coating technology is an aligned matrix that forms long molecular chains tightly bonded to the substrate surface. It effectively combines both the priming and functional layers into a single layer process, providing exceptional lubricity and durability without the time-consuming activation, swelling or performance variability often seen in traditional hydrogel coatings, according to BioInteractions. The result is a thin, flexible coating that maintains consistent frictional performance particularly under dynamic and high stress environments. The coating structure resists flaking and abrasion, ensuring negligible particulation critical for internal lumen and implantable devices.

“With a longstanding legacy in this market, we have been at the forefront of developing proven biocompatible innovations, delivering advanced solutions like Surface-Active Materials, including Assist, to meet the needs of the industry by simplifying manufacturing processes,” Luthra added. “As the industry shifts towards PFAS free alternatives, Assist will provide an alternative platform for enabling a greater diversity of products that improve patient outcomes and surgical procedures.”

BioInteractions is showcasing its Surface-Active Systems portfolio including TridAnt, an enhanced antimicrobial coating, and AstutePlus, an advanced antithrombogenic coating, in Hall 8B, booth N20.

BioInteractions Ltd. has more than 30 years of experience in research and development, specializing in biocompatible material technologies for the worldwide medical device industry. Based in purpose-built laboratories in the Thames Valley Science Park at the University of Reading, the company develops advanced and specialized coatings for devices used in medical treatments and procedures ranging from class I to class III implants.  BioInteractions has been a supplier to the medical device industry for more than three decades and supported key medical device manufacturers with their solutions. The materials portfolio confronts chronic challenges such as thrombus formation, infections, friction, and various other biocompatible challenges. 

BioInteractions has secured long-term partnerships with major medical device manufacturers globally and in 2002, won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for a biocompatible coating that was the first to combine multiple elements for enhanced long-term antithrombogenic activity for all materials and shapes in just one.