By 2010, U.S. demand for such packaging is forecast to reach $4.4 billion. What's behind the projected growth? "Pharmaceutical and biological applications will lead growth as advances in the life sciences contribute new injectable and inhalation therapies for cancer, heart disorders and other diseases. "That's according to "Sterile Medical Packaging," a new study from The Freedonia Group, Inc..
The 247-page report forecasts an increased demand for functional containers, such as prefillable inhalers and prefillable syringes, with both growing at double-digit rates through 2010. Available for $4,300, the Freedonia report also listed the following observations:
* Improved strength, puncture-resistance, and barrier properties will keep sterile pouches the leading container for medium- to large-sized medical and dental devices and supplies, including catheters and related tubing apparatus, face masks and IV administration sets.
* Sterile medical trays and pouches will post below-average gains but will remain important segments, combining for demand of more than $1 billion in 2010.
* Plastic resins--especially polyvinyl chloride, polyethylenes, polypropylene and thermoplastic polyesters--will continue to dominate the market for sterile packaging raw materials.
