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Characterization of Hexsyn, a polyolefin rubber.

C R McMillin1

  • 1Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Akron, OH 44325.

Journal of Biomaterials Applications
|July 1, 1987
PubMed
Summary

Hexsyn, a polyolefin rubber, demonstrates excellent biocompatibility and fatigue resistance for biomedical applications like artificial heart systems. Its comprehensive characterization confirms its suitability for demanding medical device components.

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Area of Science:

  • Biomaterials Science
  • Polymer Chemistry
  • Mechanical Engineering

Background:

  • Hexsyn is a polyolefin rubber developed by Goodyear, synthesized from 1-hexene with methylhexadiene for vulcanization.
  • Licensed as Bion by Lord Corporation for prostheses, it's now used in biomedical applications requiring biocompatibility and fatigue resistance, such as ventricular assist devices.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present comprehensive physical, mechanical, and biological characterization of Hexsyn.
  • To detail synthesis, compounding, and post-molding extraction procedures for Hexsyn.
  • To evaluate Hexsyn's suitability for advanced biomedical applications.

Main Methods:

  • Physical testing: density, hardness, molecular weight (GPC/LALLS), thermal analysis (DSC, TGA, TMA), dynamic mechanical analysis (Clash-Berg, Rheovibron).
  • Mechanical testing: tensile strength, elongation, stress/strain, fatigue, set, relaxation, abrasion, and skid resistance.
  • Environmental and biological testing: aging in blood, pseudoextracellular fluid, PEG, oxygen, humidity; swelling studies; permeability tests; contact angle; refractive index; residual solvent analysis.

Main Results:

  • Detailed physical properties including density, hardness, molecular weight, and thermal behavior (virgin and aged samples).
  • Extensive mechanical data demonstrating high tensile strength, elongation, and fatigue resistance under various conditions.
  • Biological compatibility and material interactions assessed through aging studies, swelling, permeability, and component migration analyses.

Conclusions:

  • Hexsyn exhibits robust physical and mechanical properties, including exceptional fatigue resistance and biocompatibility.
  • The comprehensive characterization supports its use in demanding biomedical applications, particularly for artificial heart and ventricular assist systems.
  • Quality control parameters and material-solvent interactions were established, ensuring lot-to-lot consistency.

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