MASTER BOND: Epoxy for Medical Device Assembly
Bond EP4G-80Med bonds to substrates such as metals, glass, ceramics, rubbers, and many plastics. (Photo courtesy of Master Bond.)
Master Bond EP4G-80Med is a one-part epoxy designed for use in the assembly of medical devices. This system is formulated with a non-metallic, graphite filler, which reportedly leads to good thermal and electrical conductivity. It possesses a thermal conductivity of 1.44-1.73 W/(m•K) and a volume resistivity of 50-100 ohm-cm. In addition, it complies with the ISO 10993-5 guidelines and is considered to be non-cytotoxic.
The company reports that EP4G-80Med bonds well to a variety of substrates, including metals, glass, ceramics, rubbers, and many plastics. It is effective as an EMI/RFI shielding compound and can also be used for static dissipation purposes. This system does not need high heat to cure; it cures readily in 60-90 min at 80°C. Post curing for 1-2 hrs at 80°C is commonly recommended, as it will optimize the overall properties of the epoxy. The product’s curing profile makes it suitable for many applications involving heat-sensitive substrates.
“The product’s unique feature is that despite incorporating a graphite based filler material it actually exhibits an excellent flow profile, especially for an electrically conductive system, with a viscosity of 4,000-10,000 cps. It also provides a low coefficient of thermal expansion of around 15-20 ppm/C at room temperature,” said Rohit Ramnath, senior product engineer.
EP4G-80Med is a dimensionally stable epoxy that offers a tensile strength of 2,000-3,000 psi, a tensile modulus exceeding 750,000 psi, and a Shore D hardness of 75-85 at 75°F. This system has a glass transition temperature of 130-140°C and is serviceable over the temperature range of -50 to 175°C. It can withstand exposure to water, antimicrobial agents, and many chemical sterilants.
EP4G-80Med has a relatively long working life of 8-12 hrs and must be refrigerated or frozen for storage. The product is black in color and packaged in 10- and 30-cc syringes, which are shipped in dry ice. After thawing, it is easy to apply. EP4G-80Med does not contain any solvents and is RoHS compliant.
Additional details are available at www.masterbond.com.
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