Methods for packaging and sterilizing elastomeric articles and packaged elastomeric articles produced thereby
US10421569B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 3, 2016 |
| Grant date | Sep 24, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 20, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65D81/2007
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention relates generally to methods of sterilizing elastomeric articles in a manner that prevents and/or reduces degradation to the articles, particularly degradation that may be caused and/or accelerated by sterilization techniques such as gamma irradiation, x-ray irradiation, and electron-beam processing. The methods include packaging the elastomeric articles in order to improve their resistance to degradation. In certain aspects of the invention, packaged elastomeric articles, optionally containing one or more antidegradants, such as antioxidant and/or antiozonant compounds, are also provided. The methods of providing degradation-resistant elastomeric articles in accordance with the present invention may also be used to reduce the occurrence of cracking and discoloration in elastomeric articles, regardless of whether they are subjected to sterilization.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.