Effect of external process (sterilization) on the plastic injection moulded parts

International Conference on Polymer Science & Engineering

August 22-24, 2016 New Orleans, USA

Trivikrama Bhanoji Pala and I Joga Rao

New Jersey Institute of Technology, USA

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Material Sci Eng

Abstract :

External processes like sterilization on plastics have become an important factor in industry. Sterilization is very common process in the medical device industry to ensure the safety of the devices. Product designer needs to be cognizant of the effect of sterilization in plastic injection molded parts. An experimental method is conducted to find out the effect of the mechanical properties such as tensile strength analysis and also Creep analysis on the injection molded parts before and after sterilization (radiation). Injection molded specimen made up of PP (polypropylene) with gamma radiation of 25 kGy (kilogray) dose was considered for study. Radiation interacts with polymers in two ways: Chain scission; which results in reduced tensile strength and elongation and crosslinking; which increases tensile strength but reduces elongation. Both reactions occur simultaneously but one is usually dominant, depending upon the specific polymer and additives involved. The results of Creep analysis are used in finite element methods to solve the impact of creep between the parts under load over time. Manufacturers should be cognizant of the possible impact of radiation on mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elastic modulus, impact strength and elongation. Outcomes may influence performance and should be evaluated in advance by functional testing.

Biography :

Email: tbp8@njit.edu