“We use two-part epoxies and UV-curable cements to seal Viton- or PVC-bending rubber onto the distal end of flexible endoscopes. Our current epoxy works well when it is sterilized using Steris or glutaraldehyde solutions. With the introduction of Sterrad H2O2 plasma processes, the epoxy fails after 20 to 30 cycles. What do you recommend that will hold up to more than 100 cycles?”

When ASP introduced Sterrad low-temperature hydrogen peroxide gas plasma, they tested many UV-curable adhesives and epoxies from different suppliers. The results showed that many adhesives were compatible and did not exhibit any material damage after 200 cycles. But some products were not compatible with this sterilization method. The article with the results can be viewed here: http://www.mddionline.com/article/compatibility-medical-devices-and-materials-low-temperature-hydrogen-peroxide-gas-plasma.

Since this article is more than 10 years old, some products may not be available anymore, but it is a helpful guide to identifying the most suitable product.

Adhesives Adhesives, bond failure, bonding rubber, epoxy, light-curable adhesives, PVC-bending rubber, Sterrad H202 plasma processes, uv-curable adhesive, Viton-bending rubber