S-GELs

Pure Medical-Grade Silicone

Universally recognized and accepted by the medical community, silicone is consider to be the traditional top-of-the-line material for contact with the body.  It is non-allergenic for most people.

Silicone gels can be formulated for hardness ranging from very soft to very firm.  They generally provide good shock resistance and shear force absorption.

GEL SMART’s S-GELs are ideally suited for use in a wide range of medical products, including · orthopedic devices · prosthetic liners · wound and scar management · tubing and · catheters.  They are often used as well in cosmetic and other personal care products.

Overview
Silicone compounds remain the material of choice for many health care professionals because of proven performance and familiarity.  The premium reputation typically comes with a relatively higher price, compared with other GEL SMART alternatives.

Properties and Benefits

• Compounds are available in the complete Shore hardness range up to Shore A70, including ultra-low Shore 000 durometers.
• Tactile differences range from elastic to stiff rubber-like feel.
• Optical properties range from transparent to opaque.
• Long product life
• Washable with soap and water and reusable
• Do not support microbial or fungal growth.
• Can be enriched with essential natural oils, vitamins and anti-oxidants.
• Exudes a minimal amount of oil.
• Can improve appearance of scars.
• Combinable with fabrics and material
• High-temperature resistance allows autoclaving (i.e., steam heating) for sterilization.

Applications

• Medical devices
• Scar management
• Foot care
• Prosthetic liners
• Textile coatings for tubing and sheeting used in foot orthotics

 

Additional market opportunities include:

• Cosmetics and other personal care products
• Medical tubing and catheters
• Sleep apnea masks
• Breast care

Technology
For forming cushioning and protective products, GEL SMART uses two-component, medical-grade silicone gels.  These materials are processed using room-temperature vulcanization (RTV) technology and then platinum-cured.  They cure to a very soft consistency available in a wide range of durometers.  This methodology ensures minimal material shrinkage and maximum durability.

In addition, we produce S-GELS in liquid form for coating fabrics.  These thermally cured silicone elastomers adhere to fabrics without the use of primer and can withstand temperatures from -40 to 240°C.  They provide excellent slip resistance and added support when applied to textiles.