COMPAMED: "We had many visitors that stopped by at our stand"

November 2019 marked the first time Evonik was an exhibitor at COMPAMED. We met up with Dr. Philip Engel, Business Development Manager Medical Systems Segment and asked how the company measured its trade fair success.

Dr. Engel, what products did you showcase at COMPAMED?

Philip Engel: We presented high-performance polymers for medical devices and showcased the world’s first PEEK filament in implant-grade quality for 3D printing. We received positive feedback for this. We deliver the raw material to various business partners. Medical device manufacturers can now utilize this product and produce implants that can be tailored to a patient’s needs.

There are already many types of 3D printing plastics on the market. What makes your material so unique?

Engel: This plastic is used to replace metal in implants. What makes it unique is that this filament material is suitable for FFF printing (Fused Filament Fabrication). This results in new applications that were previously not an option. In the past, 3D printing plastics were not suitable for long-term implantable devices. We are in the process of changing that.

Can you give us an example of an application?

Engel: One of the main applications pertains to treating patients with skull defects as this often relates to large and convex structures that must be uniquely designed for every single patient. Up to now, you had up to 80% waste of material in milling these types of implants. That’s about to change.

Looking back, what is your impression of COMPAMED 2019?

Engel: We got great feedback at the trade fair and had many visitors that stopped by at our stand during the first three days. That’s why I would rate it a great success.