Characterization of the surface physico-chemistry of plasticized PVC used in blood bag and infusion tubing

- Inner surface of PVC infusion tubing and transfusion bags were characterized.
- Deposits of lubricant and metallic stearates were put into evidence.
- Deposits can be damaged resulting in their leaching in body fluids.
- Potential risks for patients are discussed.

Commercial infusion tubing and blood storage devices (tubing, blood and platelets bags) made of plasticized PVC were analyzed by spectroscopic, chromatographic and microscopic techniques in order to identify and quantify the additives added to the polymer (lubricants, thermal stabilizers, plasticizers) and to put into evidence their blooming onto the surface of the devices. For all the samples, deposits were observed on the surface but with different kinds of morphologies. Ethylene bis amide lubricant and metallic stearate stabilizers were implicated in the formation of these layers. In contact with aqueous media, these insoluble deposits were damaged, suggesting a possible particulate contamination of the infused solutions.

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