Medical Plastics: Technologies and Global Markets

Medical Plastics: Technologies and Global Markets

Report Code: PLS009H

Publish Date: Feb 2017

Publisher: BCC Publishing

Category: Plastics

Customize This Report

Explore Our Services

Already a member? Login to access this report free.

Report Highlights

The global market for medical plastics reached nearly 12.0 billion pounds in 2015. This market is expected to increase from nearly 12.7 billion pounds in 2016 to nearly 17.2 billion pounds in 2021 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% for 2016-2021. 

Report Includes

  • An overview of the global markets for medical plastics.
  • Analyses of the market trends, with data from 2015, 2016, and projections of compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) through 2021.
  • Information on new medical devices, new products, technologies related to medical devices, sterilization techniques, and medical plastic product lines.
  • A look at key resins used to make medical devices, and new products and technologies related to these devices.
  • Examination of the market's dynamics, including growth drivers, restraints, and opportunities.
  • Evaluation of the environmental, and legislative and regulatory impacts on the market.
  • Profiles of major players in the medical plastics industry.

Report Scope

This report will be somewhat different from many other studies in which the focus was on materials such as resins and elastomers. This report will initially cover the medical device industry, itself, and industry and market information will be updated and definitive and detailed estimates and forecasts of the global market will be provided, followed by a detailed analysis of the key resins used to make these devices.

The ever–changing face of the medical device industry, new types of medical devices legislative, regulatory and environmental issues, new products and technologies related to medical devices, sterilization techniques and impact on polymer selection, polymer usage in medical devices, status of PVC, and medical plastic’s product lines and trade–named products along with the recent introduction of 3D printing are some of the topics that are covered.

It needs to be reiterated that several specific medical devices such as syringes, trays, tubing and kits are considered by many to be an integral part of the medical packaging market. For example, prefilled syringes are now dominant, as opposed to those filled at hospitals or physicians’ offices. Kits and trays are also used to prepackage other medical devices, all of which will be covered in the report.

Need pricing for multiple titles, a complete report bundle, or something specially curated to fit your budget? EXPLORE OFFERS

Analyst Credentials

Andrew McWilliams spent more than 25 years as a consultant with Ernst & Young, McKinsey & Company and A.T. Kearny focused on manufacturing before segueing into research analysis. He has been covering myriad technology categories for BCC Research for more than 15 years. McWilliams has a BA from Princeton University and an MA from Harvard University. He has worked in more than 40 countries and he resides in the greater Boston area.

Let us assist you! Our analysts are ready to tailor this report to your specific need. Talk to Our Analyst

Table of Contents

All reports provided in PDF format. For shared licensing options (5+ Users), please call a representative at (+1) 781-489-7301 or contact us at info@bccresearch.com
Title/Chapter NamePagesMember Price
Full Report: Medical Plastics: Technologies and Global Markets241Free
Chapter- 1: INTRODUCTION3Free
Chapter- 2: SUMMARY3Free
Chapter- 3: OVERVIEW 4Free
Chapter- 4: LEGISLATIVE AND REGULATORY ISSUES7Free
Chapter- 5: ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES2Free
Chapter- 6: RECENT PATENTS RELATED TO POLYMERS AND MEDICAL DEVICES4Free
Chapter- 7: MEDICAL DEVICE PLASTIC PROCESSES5Free
Chapter- 8: STERILIZATION TECHNIQUES6Free
Chapter- 9: VALIDATION TESTS FOR MEDICAL PLASTICS3Free
Chapter- 10: APPLICATIONS67Free
Chapter- 11: RESINS USED IN MEDICAL DEVICES12Free
Chapter- 12: COMMODITY THERMOPLASTICS23Free
Chapter- 13: STYRENIC RESINS18Free
Chapter- 14: ENGINEERING RESINS28Free
Chapter- 15: THERMOSET RESINS11Free
Chapter- 16: THERMOPLASTIC ELASTOMERS (TPES)8Free
Chapter- 17: POLYMER ALLOYS AND BLENDS3Free
Chapter- 18: BIOPOLYMERS AND BIODEGRADABLE POLYMERS3Free
Chapter- 19: MISCELLANEOUS RESINS3Free
Chapter- 20: INDUSTRY STRUCTURE7Free
Chapter- 21: NEW TECHNOLOGIES3Free
Chapter- 22: COMPANY PROFILES OF KEY SUPPLIERS, PROCESSORS AND COMPOUNDERS OF PLASTICS FOR MEDICAL DEVICES15Free
Chapter- 23: SELECTED KEY ACRONYMS3Free

Related Reports

Global Markets for Contract Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Research and Packaging

Published - Aug 2024 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - PHM043J

The global market for contract pharmaceutical manufacturing, research and packaging is estimated to increase from $212.2 billion in 2023 to reach $310.2 billion by 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7% from 2024 through 2029.

Plastics for Healthcare Packaging

Published - May 2024 | Publisher - Noopur Deshmukh | Code - PLS007G

The global market value of plastics for healthcare packaging is expected to grow from $32.1 billion in 2023 and should reach $46.1 billion by the end of 2028, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% during the forecast period of 2023 to 2028.

Medical Plastics: Global Markets

Published - Feb 2024 | Publisher - Noopur Deshmukh | Code - PLS009L

The global market for medical plastics is estimated to increase from $25.6 billion in 2023 to reach $41.2 billion by 2028, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.0% from 2023 through 2028.

Plastics for Barrier Packaging

Published - Aug 2022 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - PLS014J

The global plastic barrier packaging market volume should reach 12.8 billion pounds by 2027 from 11.0 billion pounds in 2022 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.0% for the forecast period of 2022 to 2027.

Track the Latest Global Tariff Developments

In today's fast-paced global economy, tariffs are no longer static—they are dynamic levers shaped by geopolitical realignments, supply chain vulnerabilities, inflationary pressures, and sustainability-driven trade reforms. As governments worldwide recalibrate their trade strategies, businesses are left to navigate a maze of shifting rules, rising costs, and regulatory uncertainty.

Our analysis empowers you with real-time updates and in-depth expert analysis on all facets of global tariff activity. From new trade agreements and sanctions to abrupt tariff hikes and retaliatory duties, we monitor developments across borders, sectors, and industries—so you don't have to.

Whether it's the ongoing U.S.–China trade dynamics, the evolving EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), or the emerging policies in India, ASEAN, and Latin America, we provide full-spectrum coverage. We also track multilateral trade negotiations, World Trade Organization (WTO) rulings, and sector-specific duty structures—ensuring you are always ahead of global trade shifts.

With our analysis, you can stay informed, identify risks, and confidently respond to tariff changes—no matter where you operate.

Ready to see what tariff means for your business?

Consult with our experts or request your custom Tariff Impact Brife today

Stay Informed, Stay Competitive

In today's interconnected and unpredictable global economy, staying ahead of tariff shifts is not just important—it's essential. BCC Research provides decision-makers with trusted, research-driven insights that turn uncertainty into opportunity.

Our in-depth market analysis and trade intelligence help you decode how tariff changes impact your specific sector—manufacturing, healthcare, technology, agriculture, or energy. We break down complex data into actionable knowledge through comprehensive reports, expert commentaries, and sector-focused forecasts.

Our analysis includes:

  • Thorough breakdowns of current and proposed tariff policies and how they affect regional and global trade flows.
  • Sector-specific implications, helping you understand the strategic impact on sourcing, pricing, and competitiveness.
  • Forward-looking insights to support risk management, planning, and response strategies for evolving trade conditions.

With BCC Research, you gain more than just information—you gain clarity and confidence to make well-informed decisions in a volatile trade environment.

Don't let tariffs catch you off guard—let our insights guide your strategy.

This is an Excel-only version of the report.

Report Includes

    Total Number of Tables in this Report: 110

  • Summary Table: GLOBAL MEDICAL PLASTICS MARKET, BY RESIN, THROUGH 2021
  • Table 1: LEADING GLOBAL MEDICAL DEVICE COMPANIES, 2015
  • Table 2: SELECTED RESIN USAGE BY TYPE OF MEDICAL DEVICE
  • Table 3: RADIATION RESISTANCE OF KEY MEDICAL PLASTICS
  • Table 4: SELECTED TESTS FOR PLASTICS USED IN MEDICAL APPLICATIONS
  • Table 5: SELECTED AND RANDOM EXAMPLES OF STERILIZATION STANDARDS FOR MEDICAL DEVICES
  • Table 6: GLOBAL MEDICAL PLASTICS MARKET, BY OVERALL APPLICATION, THROUGH 2021
  • Table 7: GLOBAL NONDISPOSABLE MEDICAL PLASTIC MARKET, BY APPLICATION, THROUGH 2021
  • Table 8: SELECTED KEY MANUFACTURERS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS
  • Table 9: GLOBAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS AND RELATED EQUIPMENT MARKET, BY RESIN, THROUGH 2021
  • Table 10: GLOBAL COMMODITY THERMOPLASTIC SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS AND RELATED EQUIPMENT MARKET, BY TYPE, THROUGH 2021
Sample Report

Recent Reports

Polymeric Foams: Global Markets

Published - Jun 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - PLS008K

The global market polymeric foam was valued at $148.7 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $197.8 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5% from 2025 through 2030.

Wood-Plastic Composites: Technologies and Global Markets

Published - Apr 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - PLS034D

The global market for wood-plastic composites (WPCs) is expected to grow from $4.7 billion in 2024 to $6.9 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% from 2024 through 2029.

2024 Plastics Research Review

Published - Apr 2025 | Publisher - Various Analysts | Code - PLS051H

This 2024 Research Review of the plastics industry offers a sample of the types of quantitative market information, analysis, and guidance that has been aiding business decision-making since the inception of BCC Research in 1971.

2024 Packaging Research Review

Published - Mar 2025 | Publisher - Various Analysts | Code - PLS126A

This 2024 Research Review of Packaging Market provides a sampling of the type of quantitative market information, analysis, and guidance that BCC Research has been developing since its inception in 1971 to help its customers make informed business decisions.

Global Markets and Technologies for Bioplastics

Published - Mar 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - PLS050G

The global market volume for bioplastics is estimated to increase from 2,431.9 kilotons in 2024 to reach 5,634.6 kilotons by 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.3% from 2024 through 2029.

Published - Mar-2015| Analyst - Melvin Schlechter| Code - PLS009G

Report Highlights

The U.S. medical plastics market totaled nearly 4.4 billion pounds in 2014. This market should reach nearly 4.6 billion pounds in 2015 and 5.8 billion pounds by 2020 increasing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8% between 2015 and 2020.

Published - Jun-2010| Analyst - Melvin Schlechter| Code - PLS009F

Report Highlights

  • The U.S. medical plastics market is expected to reach almost 3.5 billion pounds by the end of 2010 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 5%, consuming about 4.4 billion pounds by 2015.
  • Commodity thermoplastics dominate the market with a little more than 55% of total volume. This sector is estimated at nearly 2 billion pounds in 2010 and should increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8% to reach 2.5 billion pounds in 2015.
  • TPEs, engineering resins, and thermosets will show the most significant growth rates over the next 5 years although they only constitute about 20% of total volume. Of these, TPEs will experience the highest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2%, from 68 million pounds in 2010 to 92 million pounds in 2015.
Published - Nov-2006| Analyst - Melvin Schlechter| Code - PLS009E

Report Highlights

  • The U.S. medical plastics market will reach almost 2.7 billion pounds by the end of 2006 and will grow at an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 4.4%, consuming over 3.3 billion pounds by 2011.
  • Commodity thermoplastics dominate the market with a little over 50% of total volume. This sector of the market should consume 1.7 billion pounds by the end of 2011, an AAGR of 4.2%.
  • TPEs represent the highest growth rate through the forecast period. In 2006, 137 million pounds were consumed. By the end of 2011, consumption will reach 181 million pounds, a 5.7% AAGR.

Published - Jul-2003| Analyst - Melvin Schlechter| Code - PLS009D

Report Highlights

  • The medical plastics market will rise at an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 4.3% through 2008, from 2.2 billion pounds in 2002 to almost 2.9 billion pounds.
  • Disposable medical devices comprise about 60% of the total application volume.
  • Commodity thermoplastics represent just 50% of total product volume.
  • A slight shift to engineering resins, styrenics, thermosets and TPEs is forecast at the expense of commodity thermoplastics.

Published - Mar-2000| Analyst - Melvin Schlechter| Code - PLS009C

Report Highlights

  • The medical plastics market will reach almost 1.98 billion pounds by the end of 1999 and will grow at an annual rate of about 6%, consuming more than 2.6 billion pounds by 2004. Nondisposables comprise slightly more than 50% of total volume.
  • Commodity thermoplastics dominate the market with a little under 50% of total volume.
  • The Engineering resins market will grow at an annual rate of about 6.5%, consuming more than 0.3 billion pounds by 2004.

Become A Member

BCC Research offers a comprehensive library of reports, granting members unlimited access to data, insights, and market intelligence for informed business decisions, while actively supporting members in their evolving journeys and prioritizing high-quality, relevant topics based on continuous engagement with the research community.

Find Out More

Custom Consulting

BCC Research emphasizes the importance of organizations leveraging highly customized market insights aligned with specific strategic business objectives through direct engagement with primary sources and proprietary forecasting models for profitable decision-making in maximizing growth opportunities and minimizing risks.

Customize Now

Scorecard

The Venture Scorecard provides commercialization offices and decision makers with expert analysis, offering strategic insights crucial for aligning objectives with market realities at various stages of commercializing new products or evaluating investment opportunities, from opportunity assessment to growth planning.

Find Out More

Innovation Spotlight

Our industry experts offer strategic guidance to maximize the market potential of commercialized products, patents, and IP by providing insights into market trends, competitive dynamics, and effective positioning, using the Innovation Spotlight service for enhanced exposure to thought leaders and the wider community.

Find Out More
Medical Plastics: Technologies and Global Markets
Customize Report