WACKER is unveiling at CompaMed a biomethanol-based silicone gel adhesive that is produced in a particularly resource- and climate-friendly manner. SILPURAN eco 2114 develops high adhesive strength and makes an ideal adhesive for wound dressings and fixation aids.

Whether used as supports for ventilation masks, catheters, handles for surgical tools, or tubes for drug production, silicones have become an important technological advancement in medicine. A good example of the growing importance of this high-tech material are silicone-based skin adhesives. These soft, gel-like adhesives are compatible with the skin and can be used in various ways: for the fixation of wound dressings, plasters, or stoma products. They adhere securely and can be removed gently from the skin whenever the dressing or the device has to be changed.

At this year’s CompaMed show (Nov. 17-20), WACKER will present its first biomethanol based silicone gel for medical skin applications—SILPURAN eco 2114. During production, fossil methanol is replaced by biogenic methanol. The process which is based on the mass balance approach and is certified by the REDcert2 scheme, not only conserves fossil resources but is also climate-friendly. Taking into account the global warming potential of its emissions, SILPURAN eco 2114 saves up to 28% carbon dioxide in the production process compared to its conventional counterpart.

In a recent study, WACKER examined the release profiles of its silicone gel adhesives for transdermal patches. Results showed that silicone gels are able to release active ingredients such as Retinol much more effectively than conventional products. WACKER is presenting the complete study at CompaMed.

Otherwise, there are no differences between the two—whether in terms of chemical composition, quality, specification or processing. The “eco” product behaves in all respects like its fossil-based counterpart, offering a drop in solution into existing processes without any need for adjustments. “Our customers simply keep using the same formulation they’ve always used. Product quality and performance remain the same,” saidIan Moore, head of the Consumer and Health Business Unit at WACKER Silicones. “The two variants are chemically identical. The key difference only lies in the associated carbon footprint which is significantly lower in the eco product.”

The two-component, addition-curing adhesive cures to form a soft, skin-friendly gel with high adhesive strength. Because it can be removed painlessly and without any residues, silicone gels are ideal for use on sensitive skin or for treating chronic wounds. SILPURAN eco 2114 has a medium viscosity and is highly transparent. Its main application areas are wound dressings and plasters, wearables, sensors, and transdermal systems.

A further WACKER highlight at CompaMed is the ELASTOSIL R plus 4366/60. Its very low-friction surface reduces wear and facilitates assembly.

Key Research Area: Transdermal Systems

WACKER will also leverage CompaMed’s global platform to present the latest research findings from its Healthcare Competence Center in Ann Arbor (Mich). The study investigates SILPURAN silicone gel adhesives for transdermal patches. These constitute a stable, biocompatible and breathable matrix that is able to release medical or cosmetic active ingredients on the skin at a controlled rate over time.

The research team at WACKER used a Franz diffusion cell to analyze how efficiently various substances are released from the silicone layer, which is up to 300 micrometers thick. The actives examined included over-the-counter therapeutics, such as ibuprofen, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal remedies as well as common active ingredients from the wellness sector, various vitamins, and dietary supplements. The team identified above-average release rates in the case of more than 20 active ingredients.

“We were also able to show that silicone gel adhesives can be used to develop customized release profiles,” team leader Dr. Ufuk Karabiyik stated. These can be used to deliver the active ingredients in various ways over time: at a constant, steady rate, in an initial burst or after a prolonged delay. “Our research shows that silicones are much more than just carrier materials. They will form the basis for the next generation of transdermal systems that are gentle on the skin, can be dosed with precision and are highly versatile in use.”

Silicon Tubing

Besides the gel adhesive, WACKER is displaying two high-performance silicones that set standards in manufacturing hoses for peristaltic pumps: ELASTOSIL R plus 4360/60 and ELASTOSIL R plus 4366/60. Both solid silicone rubber grades are addition-curing. As a consequence, no peroxide-containing cleavage products are formed during vulcanization, ensuring maximum purity and process reliability. Tubing made from such silicone products can be used in heart-lung machines, dialysis and respiratory equipment, infusion systems, and catheters. Hoses made from these silicone products are ideal for dispensing drugs and mRNA vaccines as well.

ELASTOSIL R plus 4360 has a high rebound resilience and a low compression set. ELASTOSIL R plus 4366 also offers a low-friction surface—its surface friction coefficient is up to 70% lower than comparable standard grades. Thus, hoses made from these products are suitable for peristaltic pumps. Tests show a greatly increased service life and pumping accuracy. Both silicone products are U.S. Food and Drug Administratiion- and BfR-compliant.

WACKER is exhibiting its products in Hall 8A, Booth G04.