描述
ULTEM Resin HU1004 is a transparent, high temperature, healthcare grade polyetherimide (PEI) blend manufactured by SABIC. As an authorized distributor and trader, we supply genuine SABIC materials with full traceability. For more product options and company information, please visit our website at https://szrqchem.com/.
ULTEM HU1004 is a proprietary PEI blend specifically developed for healthcare and medical applications. This patent-pending formulation combines PEI with another high-performance polymer, providing synergistic advantages that the individual polymers alone cannot provide while maintaining inherent transparency. It features improved ductility and enhanced hydrolytic stability, making it the ideal single-material solution for the healthcare industry.
Designed to withstand the most rigorous sterilization environments, ULTEM HU1004 supports steam sterilization at 134°C, gamma irradiation, ethylene oxide (EtO), and hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization (with or without plasma). The material is biocompatible (ISO 10993 or USP Class VI), FDA and EU food contact compliant, and PFAS-free. With its inherent flame retardancy (UL94 V-0), high heat resistance, and excellent dimensional stability, ULTEM HU1004 is the trusted choice for demanding healthcare environments where performance, safety, and reliability are critical.
Key Features of ULTEM HU1004
-
Healthcare Grade – Specifically developed for medical devices and pharmaceutical applications; biocompatible (ISO 10993 or USP Class VI); FDA and EU food contact compliant
-
Multiple Sterilization Compatibility – Withstands steam sterilization at 134°C, gamma irradiation, ethylene oxide (EtO), and hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization (with or without plasma)
-
Enhanced Hydrolytic Stability – Proprietary PEI blend provides superior resistance to moisture and hydrolysis, maintaining performance after repeated sterilization cycles
-
Improved Ductility – Enhanced toughness and impact resistance compared to standard PEI grades
-
High Heat Resistance – Glass transition temperature (Tg) of ~217°C; UL RTI of 105°C
-
Inherent Flame Retardancy – UL94 V-0 (0.8mm) rating without halogenated additives
-
High Stiffness & Strength – Tensile modulus of 2,900-3,470 MPa; tensile strength of 95-97 MPa; flexural modulus of 2,800-3,000 MPa
-
Excellent Dimensional Stability – Low creep sensitivity, low shrinkage, and low warpage
-
Transparent – Maintains inherent transparency while delivering high performance
-
Low Smoke & Toxicity – Low smoke emission and low toxicity
-
Good Chemical Resistance – Resists many chemicals encountered in healthcare environments
-
PFAS-Free – No PFAS intentionally added during manufacturing
-
Good Metal Adhesion – Suitable for overmolding and applications requiring metal bonding
-
Versatile Processing – Suitable for injection molding; also compatible with additive manufacturing (3D printing)
-
Sustainable – ISCC+ certified bio-based offerings available
Typical Applications for ULTEM HU1004
| Industry | Typical Applications |
|---|---|
| Surgical Devices | Surgical instruments, reusable medical devices – withstands multiple sterilization cycles; maintains mechanical integrity and aesthetics [5†L12][7†L28-L30][8†L23][8†L40-L41] |
| Pharmaceutical Packaging & Drug Delivery | Drug delivery systems, pharmaceutical packaging – biocompatible, FDA compliant, hydrolytically stable [5†L12][8†L22][8†L35-L36] |
| Sterilization Trays & Containers | Sterilization trays, containers – supports steam, gamma, EtO, and hydrogen peroxide sterilization [7†L30-L32] |
| Laboratory Ware & Clinical Diagnostics | Lab ware, clinical diagnostics equipment – transparent, chemically resistant, sterilizable [8†L31] |
| Renal & Blood Handling | Renal and blood handling components – biocompatible, hydrolytically stable [8†L38-L39] |
| Medical Device Components | Enclosures, housings, covers – high strength, flame retardant, sterilizable [8†L27-L28][8†L32-L34] |
| Patient Testing | Patient testing equipment – biocompatible, transparent [5†L12-L13] |
| Medical Facility Infrastructure | Healthcare facility infrastructure components – durable, sterilizable [8†L34-L35] |
Comparison: ULTEM HU1004 vs ULTEM HU1000
| Property | ULTEM HU1004 | ULTEM HU1000 |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ~95 MPa [7†L36-L37] | ~10% higher [4†L29-L30] |
| Flexural Modulus | ~2,995 MPa [7†L40-L41] | ~10% higher [4†L29-L30] |
| Ductility | Improved [0†L12-L13] | Standard |
| Hydrolytic Stability | Enhanced [1†L6] | Standard |
| Color Change after Sterilization | Minimal [4†L25-L26] | Minimal [4†L25-L26] |
Both HU1000 and HU1004 show minimal color change versus the control after at least 300 sterilization cycles, while PPSU shows significant color change. The proprietary polymer blend formulation of ULTEM HU1004 provides enhanced ductility and hydrolytic stability compared to standard grades.
Typical Properties
| Property | HU1004 (ASTM) | HU1004 (ISO) | Unit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physical | ||||
| Specific Gravity / Density | 1.28 | 1.28 | g/cm³ | ASTM D792 / ISO 1183 [0†L28][4†L31] |
| Melt Flow Rate (MFR) – 337°C/6.6kg | 10 | — | g/10min | ASTM D1238 [9†L23-L24] |
| Melt Volume Rate (MVR) – 360°C/5kg | — | 14 | cm³/10min | ISO 1133 [9†L22-L23] |
| Mold Shrinkage, Flow | 0.50 – 0.70 | — | % | SABIC Method [8†L18] |
| Mechanical | ||||
| Tensile Modulus | 2,900 – 3,470 | — | MPa | ASTM D638 [7†L37-L38][9†L31] |
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | 95 | 97 | MPa | ASTM D638 / ISO 527 [9†L26][9†L32] |
| Tensile Strength (Break) | 90 | 80 | MPa | ASTM D638 / ISO 527 [9†L27][9†L33] |
| Yield Strain | 7 | 7 | % | ASTM D638 / ISO 527 [9†L26][9†L33] |
| Elongation at Break | 85 | 50 | % | ASTM D638 / ISO 527 [9†L27][9†L34] |
| Flexural Modulus | 3,000 | 2,800 | MPa | ASTM D790 / ISO 178 [9†L27-L28][9†L34-L35] |
| Flexural Strength | 151 | — | MPa | ASTM D732 [7†L39-L40] |
| Impact | ||||
| Izod Impact (Notched, 23°C) | 70 | 6 | J/m / kJ/m² | ASTM D256 / ISO 180/1A [9†L30][9†L35] |
| Izod Impact (Unnotched, 23°C) | — | No Break | — | ISO 180/1U [9†L28] |
| Izod Impact (Reverse Notch) | No Break | — | — | ASTM D256 [7†L42] |
| Multi-axial Impact (23°C, Total Energy) | 94 | — | J | ASTM D3763 [7†L44] |
| Thermal | ||||
| Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) | ~217 | ~217 | °C | |
| Vicat Softening Temp. (A50) | — | 219 | °C | ISO 306 [9†L37] |
| Vicat Softening Temp. (B50) | 212 | 212 | °C | ASTM D1525 / ISO 306 [9†L37-L38] |
| UL RTI (Elec/Imp/Str) | 105 / 105 / 105 | — | °C | UL 746B [5†L26-L27][6†L28-L29] |
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.19 | — | W/m-°C | ASTM C177 [5†L26][6†L27-L28] |
| Flammability | ||||
| UL 94 Flammability | V-0 (0.8mm) | — | — | UL 94 [9†L38-L39] |
| Electrical | ||||
| Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) | PLC 4 | — | — | UL 746A [0†L26] |
Important Notes on Typical Data:
-
Values listed are typical and sourced from SABIC official data sheets. They do not constitute binding product specification.
-
Batch-to-batch deviations may exist. For critical applications, validate performance with batch-specific COA certificate.
-
Final performance depends on processing conditions, mold design, and part geometry.
-
SABIC official TDS shall serve as definitive technical reference. Request the latest official TDS from our sales team.
Processing Guidelines (Injection Molding)
| Parameter | Recommended Conditions | |
|---|---|---|
| Drying | ||
| Drying Temperature | 150°C [0†L27][4†L32] | |
| Drying Time | 6 – 8 hours [0†L27-L28] | |
| Maximum Moisture Content | ≤0.02% | |
| Injection Molding | ||
| Melt Temperature | 345 – 390°C [5†L29-L30][6†L31] | |
| Front Zone 3 Temperature | 345 – 390°C [5†L29-L30] | |
| Nozzle Temperature | 345 – 390°C [5†L30] | |
| Mold Temperature | 130 – 160°C [3†L19] | |
| Back Pressure | 0.300 – 0.700 MPa [3†L19] | |
| Screw Speed | 40 – 70 rpm [3†L19] | |
| Vent Depth | 0.025 – 0.076 mm [5†L29] |
Critical Processing Warnings:
-
Drying: ULTEM HU1004 is hygroscopic and must be dried to ≤0.02% moisture before processing. Dry at 150°C for 6-8 hours.
-
Melt Temperature: Recommended melt temperature range is 345-390°C. Avoid excessive residence times to prevent thermal degradation.
-
Mold Temperature: Higher mold temperatures (130-160°C) improve flow and reduce residual stress.
-
Gate Design: Use large gates and runners to minimize flow resistance and reduce molded-in stress.
-
Regrind: Regrind can be used up to 20-25% with virgin material, provided it is clean and properly dried.
-
Healthcare Applications: This grade is specifically designed for medical devices and pharmaceutical applications. It is biocompatible (ISO 10993 or USP Class VI) and healthcare management of change applies.
-
Sterilization: ULTEM HU1004 supports steam, gamma, EtO, and E-beam sterilization. Verify compatibility with your specific sterilization protocol.
-
Food Contact: This material is food contact compliant in most jurisdictions – exceptions may exist, request a declaration for details.
-
PFAS-Free: This product does not contain PFAS intentionally added during manufacturing.
Related Products
-
Explore PEI / Polyetherimide – Browse all ULTEM PEI resin options
-
Explore Engineering Plastics – Browse all engineering plastic materials
-
ULTEM HU1000 – Healthcare Grade PEI Resin – Standard flow healthcare PEI
-
About Our Company – Learn more about our supply capabilities and quality assurance
Technical Documents
| Document Type | Description & Source |
|---|---|
| SABIC Official TDS | Complete physical, thermal, and mechanical properties of ULTEM HU1004 |
| SABIC Official SDS | GHS-compliant chemical safety documentation |
| UL Yellow Card | UL certification E121562-100737020 [9†L20] |
| ISO 10993 / USP Class VI | Biocompatibility certification [5†L14][1†L7-L8] |
| FDA Compliance Declaration | FDA food contact compliance [1†L14-L15] |
| EU Food Contact Compliance | European food contact compliance [1†L15] |
| COA (Certificate of Analysis) | Batch-specific quality certification |
| Processing Guide | Detailed processing guidelines for ULTEM HU1004 |
Request any document above by:
-
Email:
ruiqingchem@gmail.com -
Online form: Our contact page
We reply within one working business day. Please clearly state product (ULTEM HU1004) and document type you require.
FAQ
Q1: What is ULTEM HU1004 and what is it used for?
A: ULTEM HU1004 is a transparent, healthcare grade polyetherimide (PEI) blend manufactured by SABIC. It is specifically developed for medical devices and pharmaceutical applications. It is widely used in surgical instruments, pharmaceutical packaging, drug delivery systems, sterilization trays, laboratory ware, renal and blood handling components, and general healthcare equipment.
Q2: Is ULTEM HU1004 biocompatible?
A: Yes. ULTEM HU1004 is biocompatible per ISO 10993 or USP Class VI, making it suitable for regulated medical and pharmaceutical applications.
Q3: Is ULTEM HU1004 FDA compliant?
A: Yes. ULTEM HU1004 has agency approval of the FDA and is EU food contact compliant (EUFC). It is food contact compliant in most jurisdictions.
Q4: What sterilization methods can ULTEM HU1004 withstand?
A: ULTEM HU1004 supports steam sterilization at 134°C, gamma irradiation, ethylene oxide (EtO), and hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization (with or without plasma).
Q5: What is the glass transition temperature of ULTEM HU1004?
A: The glass transition temperature (Tg) is approximately 217°C.
Q6: What is the density of ULTEM HU1004?
A: The specific gravity is 1.28 g/cm³.
Q7: Is ULTEM HU1004 flame retardant?
A: Yes. ULTEM HU1004 is inherently flame retardant with UL94 V-0 (0.8mm) rating.
Q8: Is ULTEM HU1004 transparent?
A: Yes. ULTEM HU1004 is available in transparent grade, with all colors customizable via ColorXpress.
Q9: Is ULTEM HU1004 PFAS-free?
A: Yes. ULTEM HU1004 has no PFAS intentionally added during manufacturing.
Q10: What is the melt flow rate of ULTEM HU1004?
A: The Melt Flow Rate (MFR) is 10 g/10min at 337°C, 6.6kg; the Melt Volume Rate (MVR) is 14 cm³/10min at 360°C, 5kg.
Q11: What is the tensile strength of ULTEM HU1004?
A: Tensile yield strength is 95 MPa (ASTM) / 97 MPa (ISO); tensile break strength is 90 MPa (ASTM) / 80 MPa (ISO).
Q12: What is the tensile modulus of ULTEM HU1004?
A: The tensile modulus is 2,900-3,470 MPa.
Q13: What is the difference between ULTEM HU1004 and ULTEM HU1000?
A: ULTEM HU1004 is a proprietary PEI blend with improved ductility and enhanced hydrolytic stability, specifically developed for healthcare applications. ULTEM HU1000 offers approximately 10% higher tensile strength and flexural modulus, but HU1004 provides superior performance in demanding sterilization environments. Both grades show minimal color change after sterilization, while PPSU shows significant color change.
Q14: What processing methods can be used for ULTEM HU1004?
A: ULTEM HU1004 is suitable for injection molding and is also compatible with additive manufacturing (3D printing).
Q15: What is the recommended drying condition for ULTEM HU1004?
A: Dry at 150°C for 6-8 hours.
Q16: What is the recommended melt temperature for injection molding ULTEM HU1004?
A: Recommended melt temperature is 345-390°C.
Q17: What is the lead time for orders?
A: Regular orders ship within 7-10 working days after payment confirmation. Large-volume or urgent orders can be negotiated separately.
CTA (Call to Action)
Ready to order ULTEM HU1004?
To get a precise quotation and professional technical support, please share:
-
Required quantity (kg)
-
Destination port or delivery address
-
Target application (surgical devices, pharmaceutical packaging, drug delivery, medical devices, sterilization trays, etc.)
-
Processing method (injection molding, additive manufacturing, etc.)
-
Color requirement (transparent or custom color via ColorXpress)
-
Document requirement (TDS, SDS, ISO 10993/USP Class VI certification, FDA compliance, UL, COA, etc.)
Sample Policy:
-
Samples are for laboratory validation tests only, not for production use.
-
Buyer bears international sample-shipping freight.
-
If bulk-product performance deviates from sample reference, SABIC official TDS serves as the authoritative benchmark.
Take action now:
-
📧 Email Us –
ruiqingchem@gmail.com -
📝 Send Inquiry – Use our quick inquiry form
-
💬 Live Chat – Click the bottom-right chat widget to speak directly with our team
After-Sales Support
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Quality Inspection Period | All quality-related claims must be submitted within 7 working-days after delivery, supported by test data and photographic evidence. |
| Return / Exchange Policy | Confirmed product defects caused by our side trigger replacement or refund. Terms and conditions apply. |
| Logistics Damage | Report shipping damage directly to carrier immediately upon goods receipt. We assist with claim-document preparation. |
| Technical Support | Remote technical guidance available. On-site troubleshooting can be arranged upon special request. |
| Export Documentation | We supply commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, COA, and additional compliance certificates (e.g., FDA, ISO 10993, USP Class VI, UL, RoHS) on request. |
Disclaimer
DISCLAIMER: All technical data is referenced from original SABIC typical values for ULTEM HU1004. Our company acts as authorized distributor/trader rather than original manufacturer. Final performance depends on processing conditions, mold design, and part geometry. Buyers shall independently validate product suitability for individual applications, particularly for medical device applications where regulatory compliance must be verified under end-use conditions. Our firm bears no liability for product failure caused by improper processing or improper usage. Always reference the latest SABIC official TDS of ULTEM HU1004 as the definitive specification.


