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Polysulfone (PSU)
Polysulfone (PSU) is an amorphous polymer. Amorphous polymers do not have defined melting points but ranges at which they soften (called the glass transition temperature).
What is Polysulfone (PSU)?
Polysulfone (PSU) is an amorphous polymer. Amorphous polymers do not have defined melting points but ranges at which they soften (called the glass transition temperature).
Polysulfone contains the subunit aryl-SO2-aryl (containing the sulfone group). It is known for holding its properties over a wide temperature range. PSU has the highest service temperature of all melt-processable thermoplastics. It has excellent strength and transparency; withstands exposure to water; and can be colored.
Polysulfone is one of the high-performance engineering resins we extrude for medical tubing that needs strength, heat resistance or stiffness. Compare it with the other resins on our engineering resins page, or call us to talk through your application.
Polysulfone tubing
Polysulfone has the highest service temperature of the melt-processable thermoplastics, and it is transparent, strong and water resistant. That makes polysulfone tubing a candidate for clear, rigid parts that must survive steam autoclaving or vaporized hydrogen peroxide. Compare it with other engineering resins.
Polysulfone questions, answered
Does polysulfone have a melting point?
Polysulfone is amorphous, so it softens over a range instead of melting sharply. Its glass transition temperature is 370°F (188°C).
What is the density of polysulfone?
Polysulfone has a specific gravity of 0.0448 lb./in.3 (1.24 g/cc), which corresponds to a density of about 1.24 g/cm³.
How can polysulfone tubing be sterilized?
Depending on grade, polysulfone is compatible with ethylene oxide (EtO), gamma and E-beam radiation, steam autoclaving and vaporized hydrogen peroxide. Confirm the method for your specific grade with the resin supplier.
Does MicroSpec extrude polysulfone tubing?
Yes. We extrude polysulfone into custom medical tubing, including multi-lumen, bump and co-extruded designs. Send us your print or call 603.924.4300 for a quote.
Polysulfone (PSU) properties
| Property | Measure low | Measure high |
|---|---|---|
| Specific gravity | 0.0448 lb./in.3 (1.24 g/cc) | |
| Melting point | Not applicable | |
| Glass transition temperature | 370°F (188°C) | |
| Tensile strength at break | Not available | |
| Elongation at break | 50% | 100% |
| Hardness durometer (Shore A) | Not available | |
| Hardness durometer (Shore D) | Not available | |
| Water absorption @ 24 hours | 0.22% | 0.3% |
This material datasheet is presented for reference only. Characteristics and performance may vary for a specific application and environment. Confirm material selection and suitability against your own requirements and the resin supplier's documentation.
Sterilization
- Ethylene oxide (EtO) Gamma and E-beam radiation Steam autoclaving Vaporized hydrogen peroxide
Other engineering resins & peek tubing we extrude.
PEEK (Polyetheretherketone)
Semi-crystalline high-performance thermoplastic
Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT)
Semi-crystalline engineering thermoplastic
Polycarbonate (PC)
Amorphous engineering thermoplastic
Polyetherimide (PEI)
Amorphous high-performance polymer
Extruding Polysulfone for your device?
Send us your specs, drawing or just describe the problem. A member of our team will follow up personally to walk through tolerances, materials and schedule.
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Have full drawings and tolerances? Use our detailed request form.