Many medical devices and biomaterials are tested in a bath of water or saline heated to 37°C (body temperature) to simulate the environment in which they will be used—catheters, stents, and suture materials are a few examples. Although this robust solution accurately replicates a biomedical environment, there is opportunity for spillage or leakage when using a bath of liquid. Spillage can sometimes occur when a bath is being used, filled, or emptied incorrectly. Moreover, outside liquids could also enter the frame, including liquids stored nearby, or from wet specimens.
Liquids can damage the testing instrument as well as be a hazard to the operator. Therefore, the Instron® BioCoat has been developed to alleviate this issue. Designed as a waterproof, polyurethane cover that slips over any new or existing single column frame (554x, 334x, and 594x), the flexible shield protects the frame from liquids, while allowing for easy access to all connectors and controls, and can be easily removed.
Jim Ritchey is director of medical device and biomaterial markets for Instron.
