Zeus, Inc., a global leader in material science and high performance polymer extrusions, announced today that it has developed a series of enhanced formulations for maximizing radiopacity in PEEK extrusions. Known for its inherent strength and stiffness, PEEK is often used as a replacement for metallic tubing and other componentry in the medical device industry, namely in MRI applications where metals cannot be used. Coupling these inherent properties with its newly developed radiopaque formulations, Zeus is now able to offer PEEK extrusions that give additional benefits and features over traditional RO PEEK.

Radiopaque PEEK and other RO materials illuminate under fluoroscopy, allowing for better visual navigation and positioning in a number of minimally invasive surgical procedures. The introduction of PEEK with enhanced, high level RO filler improves visualization while maintaining a lighter weight than traditional metal alternatives. Radiopaque PEEK can withstand gamma irradiation for sterilization purposes, making it an ideal component for advanced technologies.

"The introduction of this product presents unique possibilities to medical device manufacturers and engineers that were previously limited with respect to RO PEEK," said Bob Jennings, Zeus Vice-president, Sales and Marketing. "Radiopaque PEEK is vital for the success of applications that utilize imaging under fluoroscopy, but also require higher strength, stiffness, and chemical resistance."
Zeus is capable of producing radiopaque PEEK in a wide range of ID/OD/wall dimensions for an array of demanding applications.