HIGH-PERFORMANCE MATERIAL

Polysulfone (PSU)

A rigid, high-strength, and semi-transparent plastic that can withstand high temperatures and repeated sterilization cycles. PSU is a top choice for demanding medical, aerospace, and food-processing applications.

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A blank of a high-performance plastic used for medical components, similar to PSU

Stable, Strong, and Sterilizable

Polysulfone (PSU) is a high-performance amorphous thermoplastic known for its amber, semi-transparent appearance. It is part of a family of sulfone polymers that are prized for their exceptional stability in harsh environments.

High Thermal Stability

PSU has a high heat deflection temperature of 174°C (345°F), allowing it to maintain its strength and stiffness at elevated temperatures where materials like Polycarbonate would fail.

Hydrolytic Stability

PSU is highly resistant to hydrolysis and can withstand repeated sterilization cycles with steam, autoclaving, ethylene oxide (ETO), and gamma radiation without significant degradation.

Good Chemical Resistance

It offers good resistance to acidic and basic solutions, making it suitable for components in food processing and chemical handling equipment.

Machining & Applications

PSU is typically processed via CNC machining from rod or sheet stock. It has good machinability, similar to Polycarbonate, allowing for the creation of precise components with tight tolerances.

Medical & Life Sciences: Reusable surgical trays, instrument handles, and components for diagnostic equipment that require repeated sterilization.
Aerospace: Interior components that require good fire, smoke, and toxicity (FST) ratings.
Food Processing: Manifolds, nozzles, and components for hot-fill and food handling equipment. Also used for transparent membrane filtration modules.

A housing for a medical monitoring device, an application for high-performance plastics like PSU

PSU Plastic FAQ

What is the difference between PSU, PES, and PPSU?

These are all related sulfone polymers. PSU is the standard grade. PES (polyethersulfone) offers slightly higher temperature resistance and mechanical properties. PPSU (polyphenylsulfone) offers the highest performance of the three, with superior impact strength and chemical resistance.

Is PSU impact resistant?

PSU has good impact resistance, but it is a rigid, notch-sensitive material. This means that while it is strong, a sharp corner or notch can create a stress concentration point that makes it more prone to cracking under impact compared to a very tough material like Polycarbonate.