Healthcare

Supporting medical technologies and healthcare environments

In the context of EU healthcare, industrial, and chemicals policy, adhesives and sealants function as enabling technologies that support patient safety, infection control, wound care, and the reliability of medical systems. They contribute to resilient healthcare supply chains and to Europe’s capacity to develop and manufacture advanced medical technologies to stay competitive and innovative.

The technical applications of adhesives and sealants, and the benefits afforded

Adhesives and sealants are used across healthcare applications, shaping how medical devices, clinical environments, and protective equipment are designed and used. From diagnostic devices and minimally invasive instruments to wearable monitors and hygienic hospital surfaces, adhesives and sealants help combine materials, ensure precision, and maintain performance.

Beyond bonding, they provide sealing, protect against contamination, and withstand demanding conditions such as sterilisation and continuous use. This helps devices remain reliable, supports accurate diagnostics, and maintains high hygiene standards.

Medical devices and equipment

Adhesives are widely used in medical device assembly, including diagnostic equipment, membrane-based filtration systems, and minimally invasive instruments such as endoscopes. They bond plastics, metals, and specialised membranes, often where traditional joining methods are not suitable.

This has a direct effect on performance and safety. Reliable bonding ensures device accuracy, durability, and consistent operation over time. In applications such as diagnostics and filtration, the use of adhesives supports accurate results and effective treatment. The ability to withstand sterilisation processes and demanding operating conditions is also critical for maintaining hygiene and regulatory compliance.

Skin contact, wound care and surgical applications

Adhesives are used directly on the body in applications such as wound closure, dressings, medical tapes, and wearable monitoring devices that track functions such as heart rate or glucose levels. They are also used to secure prosthetics and drug delivery systems.

They solve the challenge of attaching materials to human skin, which differs in texture, sensitivity and movement. Medical-grade adhesives must hold securely without causing irritation or damage, while remaining breathable, suitable for prolonged wear, compatible with sterilisation, and compliant with strict biocompatibility requirements. This is essential for both patient safety and comfort. Reliable skin adhesion keeps sensors and dressings in place, supporting accurate monitoring and treatment, while gentle removal helps protect skin integrity, especially for vulnerable patients. In wound care, adhesives can also replace or complement sutures in certain applications.

In surgical settings, adhesives are also used for skin closure and microbial sealing, helping reduce infection risk during and after procedures. They can close small incisions or complement sutures, while some formulations form a protective film that helps limit microorganisms and protect the wound site in the immediate post-operative phase.

Personal protective equipment

Adhesives are used in the production of personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks, gowns, drapes and face shields. They bond layers of materials, attach components such as straps, and seal seams.

They solve the need for secure bonding without compromising material integrity. Unlike mechanical fastening, adhesives do not puncture protective barriers, allowing PPE to maintain its function as a shield against contaminants. This is critical for safety and infection control. Reliable seals and bonds help prevent contaminants from entering, protecting both patients and healthcare workers.

Healthcare facilities and clean environments

Sealants play a key role in the construction and maintenance of healthcare environments, including hospitals, laboratories and clean rooms. They are used in flooring systems, joints and structural interfaces.

They address the need for hygienic, durable, and easy-to-maintain surfaces. Specialised sealants provide seamless finishes that are resistant to moisture, chemicals, mould and bacteria. In clean rooms, sealants used are designed to have low particle emission, meaning they do not shed dust or degrade in a way that would introduce particles into the controlled space.

This ensures hygiene and operational reliability. Surfaces that are easy to clean and resistant to microbial growth help maintain sterile conditions and reduce the risk of contamination. Durable materials also reduce maintenance needs and support long-term performance in these demanding environments.