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According to a report by Technavio (London), the demand for ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) used in the manufacture of plastic surgery and cardiovascular implants is driving the growth of the material in the global market. The study predicts that the compound annual growth rate during the forecast period from 2017 to 2021 will exceed 9%.
UHMWPE is an odorless, tasteless and non-toxic polyethylene (PE). According to Technavio, it has all the characteristics of high-density PE, but also has the added advantage of being resistant to acids, alkalis and other organic solvents. UHMWPE has a variety of shapes and forms, suitable for a variety of applications, but the medical field is one of the main markets, accounting for nearly 30% of the market share in 2016. Other main applications are protective clothing and equipment and rechargeable batteries.
The report pointed out that UHMWPE-based implants are becoming more and more popular in applications such as orthopedics and cardiovascular implants because of the material's long service life and tensile strength. Mohd Shakeel Iqbal, chief plastics, polymer and elastomer research analyst at Technavio, explained that in cardiovascular equipment, UHMWPE fibers are gradually replacing polyethylene terephthalate fibers because of their small size and flexibility. "The types of cardiovascular implants based on UHMWPE are cardiac stents, pacing devices, and structural cardiac implants. In addition, advances in medical technology, increased investment in healthcare, population aging, and [increasing] disposable "Revenue" is driving demand for UHMWPE in medical applications, Iqbal said.
Since World War II, the use of this material in protective equipment has a long history and is still a popular application. Hard bulletproof fibers based on UHMWPE are used for helmets and body armor, while soft bulletproof fibers are used for vests to protect soldiers from the impact of knives and bullets.
A newer application involves rechargeable batteries, where UHMWPE is widely used as a separator. According to Technavio, demand in North America is particularly high. The separator made of UHMWPE has a microporous texture, small pore size and higher rejection rate, which is critical to the battery performance of the North American automotive industry.
For a free sample report or to purchase a complete study, please visit the Technavio website.
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