Effect of steam sterilization on polyethylene terephthalate

Subtle changes on the surface of polymeric materials on autoclaving have been ignored so far. An increase in cyclic trimer content on the surface of polyethylene terephthalate on autoclaving is reported. This increase may affect the biocompatibility of polyethylene terephthalate. Quantification of the cyclic trimer was done by high performance liquid chromatography.