Smithers Expert to Present on Elastomer Testing in Medical Applications at 2018 Thermoplastic Summit

AKRON, Ohio - May 30, 2018 - PRLog -- Smithers Rapra, a world leader in rubber, plastics and composites testing expertise, has announced thatAlison Schweda, principal scientist for extractables and leachables chemistry, will give an overview on determining the compatibility of elastomer products for pharmaceutical and medical device packaging at the 2018 Thermoplastic Elastomers US Summit in Cleveland, OH, June 27-28.

Schweda will present an "Overview of Extractables and Leachables Testing of Elastomers in Medical Applications" at 9:30 am on Thursday, June 28. She will focus on sample preparation, analysis, and common additives for critical packaging/medical device components, as well as regulatory guidance on assessing the impact of changing a drug product's immediate packaging materials.

"Alison is a perfect fit for a conference that provides great insight into the future of thermoplastic regulations and markets," said Jim Popio, Vice President, Smithers Rapra. "Her understanding of chemistry, specifically as it relates to pharmaceutical and medical packaging production, will be an incredible asset to all who attend this year's summit."

The Thermoplastic Elastomers US Summit (https://www.elastomer-forum.com/tpe-us) provides application-driven papers from TPE market leaders, networking opportunities, and access to key industry players. This gathering of the industry's leading material manufacturers, compounders, tier one and two suppliers, and end users of thermoplastic elastomers will dive into high-growth end use applications, such as healthcare, consumer electronics, industrial applications, automotive, and a number of new opportunities.

Schweda has over a decade of experience in chemistry and research management in the pharmaceutical industry. As Principal Scientist at Smithers, she is primarily responsible for process implementation, execution, and conduct of projects and studies, as well as sample preparation, extraction, analysis, and result reporting. Schweda is based in the analytical services lab located in Akron, Ohio, which supports extractables and leachables studies for the medical device, pharmaceutical, and food industries. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Hillsdale College.

Covering medical devices or pharmaceutical delivery/packaging from material (http://www.smithersrapra.com/testing-services/by-sector/m...) to final product performance (http://www.smitherspira.com/services/medical-device-testing), packaging integrity (http://www.smitherspira.com/services/distribution-testing/package-testing/post-test-integrity-testing-for-medical-packaging) and regulatory submissions, Smithers offers a unique set of services that can assist clients through the development process. Extensive technical expertise and a global laboratory footprint supplements this differentiated service offering. Learn more about Smithers' medical and pharmaceutical testing services here (http://www.smithersrapra.com/testing-services/by-sector/medical-and-pharmaceutical).

About Smithers Rapra:

Smithers Rapra has been a trusted partner of the rubber and plastics industries for over 90 years. Our business is built around delivering a complete portfolio of rubber and plastic testing services to support a wide range of industry sectors including tire, automotive, polymer products, oil and gas, medical device, pharmaceutical, transport, packaging, industrial, and consumer products. By integrating science, technology and business expertise, Smithers adds value throughout the life cycle of our clients' products. Please visitwww.smithersrapra.com.

About The Smithers Group:

Headquartered in Akron, Ohio, The Smithers Group includes Smithers Apex, Smithers Avanza, Smithers Pira, Smithers Quality Assessments, Smithers Rapra, and Smithers Viscient. Each Smithers Group company provides technology-based services focused on a defined market. As a group, the diversity of market sectors and technologies provides stability and a platform for long-term growth. By integrating science, technology and business expertise, Smithers' goal is to add value throughout the lifecycle of our clients' products, by utilizing testing, consulting, information, and compliance services. All Smithers companies are known by their clients as Trusted Providers of Innovative Solutions. For more information, visitwww.smithers.com.

You can reach the Smithers Rapra North America office at:

425 West Market Street

Akron, Ohio 44303

Telephone: 330-762-7441