Until recently, the selling points for mensuration items like cloth pads, sanitary pads, sea sponges, menstrual discs, and other disposable menstruation products were focused on convenience and comfort. Sustainability has since emerged as an essential factor in consumer appeal. 

Menstrual cups, which are small, flexible vessels that come in a range of sizes, are depicted as a more environmentally friendly option than similar single-use items. They are also available in reusable variants, and with proper maintenance, can last up to 12 years.

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are emerging as alternatives to silicones as common materials used in newer menstrual cups. Factors for consideration are that TPEs are hypoallergenic and sterile, ensuring safe use inside the human body. 

KRAIBURG TPE, a global thermoplastic elastomer manufacturer with a broad range of products and custom solutions for a range of industries, offers a medical-grade TPE solution for menstrual cups. 

Spot on material advantages
In KRAIBURG TPE’s medical-grade THERMOLAST® M range, the MC/tl series is a perfect fit for menstrual cup applications, since it combines durability with flexibility, and safety. 

The TPE series complies with medical approvals such as ISO 10993-4,5,10,11, USP <88>, and VDI 2017, allowing for use in medical applications.
 
Additionally, the compound is sterilizable (autoclave 134°C, ß-/y-radiation 2x35 kGy, EtO) and is free from heavy metals, phthalates, latex, PVC, as well as animal ingredients.

Other features are the pre-coloring options, as well as good compression set in a wide range of hardness and its soft touch properties.

Additionally, KRAIBURG TPE’s MC/tl series TPE compounds have good adhesion to PP and PE, allowing for flexibility in use. 
 

Medical service package
Not only does KRAIBURG TPE’s THERMOLAST® M MC/tl series deliver multiple benefits for menstrual cup applications, including comfort, safety, convenience of use, and cleanliness, but it also comes with a Medical Service Package.

The Medical Service Package is a component of every KRAIBURG TPE’s THERMOLAST® M range of compounds and ensures the highest level of raw material purity and reliable 24-month supply security, during a defined change management procedure.

Furthermore, this compound series ensures maximum safety with superior control execution, making it an excellent material choice for medical and pharmaceutical applications. 
 

Sustainability successes of our TPE
Besides the materials for menstrual cup application, KRAIBURG TPE’s recent sustainability innovations include a specially developed material solution for automotive, consumer, and industry applications comprising post-consumer recycled (PCR) and post-industrial recycled (PIR) content. 
Are you looking for a sustainable TPE solution? Talk to us! 
Our experts are happy to answer any questions you have, as well as to offer the right solution for your application.