Engineering the PFAS-Free Future: Innovation in Vascular Biomaterials
PFAS regulations are tightening. PTFE supply chains are under pressure. What does this mean for catheter and vascular device design, and what viable alternatives actually exist?
Join us for a technical deep dive into PFAS-free material strategies for vascular applications, with a focus on UHMWPE as a next-generation liner material that balances performance, manufacturability, and sustainability.
Date: Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Time: 12 PM (ET)
Duration: 1 hour (presentation + live Q&A)
Joined by:Wei Cheng, Sr. Scientist and Application Expert, dsm-firmenich
What You'll Learn
The real challenge with PTFE: Why patient safety isn’t the issue, but sustainability pressures and supply chain resilience are
Evaluating PFAS-free alternatives: The limitations of coatings, additives, and HDPE-based approaches
UHMWPE as a viable solution: How it compares to PTFE in friction performance, scratch resistance, debris reduction, and bonding behavior with common jacket materials
Manufacturing considerations: What to know about reflow compatibility, thin-wall and large-diameter feasibility, and sterilization
Where UHMWPE potentially fits today: Practical applications in introducers, sheaths, aspiration, neurovascular, and steerable catheters
Spots are limited. Register now to reserve your seat and get access to the recording!
Why Attend?
PTFE has long been the default liner material for catheters and vascular devices, but environmental impact, regulatory scrutiny, and supply chain risk are forcing design teams to rethink the status quo.
This practical, data-backed webinar is designed for R&D engineers and technical leaders who want to understand what’s driving the shift away from PFAS-based materials and how to evaluate viable alternatives without compromising performance or manufacturability.
Who Should Attend?
This webinar is ideal for:
R&D engineers and engineering managers
Catheter and vascular device designers
Materials and polymer specialists
Innovation, sustainability, and advanced development teams
If you’re involved in catheter design, material selection, or next-generation device development, this session is for you.
Meet the Speakers
Wei Cheng, Ph.D.
Sr. Scientist and Application Expert
Wei Cheng is Sr. Scientist and Application Expert within the Biomedical Group of dsm-firmenich, based in The Netherlands.
He is a dedicated technical expert for the Ulteeva Purity™ membrane technology and UHMWPE applications, and plays a pivotal role in advancing high‑performance biomaterials for next‑generation interventional medical devices.
Katie Karmelek
Co-Founder
Katie Karmelek is the Co-Founder of Chamfr, the fastest way to source medical device components.
Prior to Chamfr, her mechanical engineering and technical background led to product development, business development, and leadership roles at companies such as TDC Medical, Vention Medical, and Olympus.
Save Your Spot
PFAS-free materials are no longer a future discussion. They’re a current design challenge.
Reserve your spot to learn how UHMWPE is shaping the next generation of vascular devices.