The unique structure of DuPont Tyvek®, which creates a tortuous path with substantial lateral movement, results in outstanding microbial barrier properties. The tough continuous fibers of Tyvek® also provides remarkable strength.
Scanning electron micrographs (SEMs) of Tyvek®
The key factor in selecting packaging materials for medical devices is the ability of the package to maintain sterility from the point of sterilization until it is opened for use. Even under the most rigorous conditions, in highly contaminated environments, DuPont™ Tyvek® is highly resistant to penetration by bacteria, spores and other contaminating microorganisms and can maintain sterility for at least five years provided package integrity is not compromised.
Microbial Barrier Test Results
Per ASTM F1608. Microbial barrier is the measure of the ability of a porous substrate to prevent bacteria penetration. A completely impermeable control sample (microbial penetration is zero) is challenged with one million or 106 colony forming units (cfu). The number of cfu 106 has a log10 value of 6. If a sample challenged in the same way as the control allows 10 cfu (log 10 = 1) to penetrate, then its log reduction value (LRV) is 5 (6 - 1 = 5). Therefore, the higher the LRV, the more resistant the packaging is to bacteria and microorganisms.
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