Platinum plating as a pacemaker for medical technology

The importance of platinum in modern medical technology

In this demanding environment, where safety, durability, and compatibility are top priorities, platinum has established itself as the material of choice. Its unique properties make it ideal for medical applications:

• Chemical inertness
  Platinum hardly reacts with other substances, even over long periods of time.
• Corrosion resistance
  Platinum does not corrode, even in acidic or alkaline environments.
• Biocompatibility
  Platinum is very well tolerated and does not cause allergic reactions.
• Electrical conductivity
  Platinum has excellent electrical conductivity (9.48 × 106 S·m⁻¹).
• Temperature and dimensional stability
  Platinum remains dimensionally stable even at high temperatures (melting point: 1,768 °C).

Unfortunately, these properties are often only available to a limited extent – the quality of the platinum coating is a decisive factor in the performance of the end product. This is where PLATUNA^® PT sets new benchmarks and enables the next step in medical technology.

PLATUNA^® PT is a highly developed, strongly acidic platinum electrolyte that has been specially designed for technical applications. It is characterized by maximum purity, uniform layer distribution, and exceptional surface quality.

PLATUNA^® PT enables extremely uniform, dense, and biocompatible platinum plating on almost all metals. This ensures precise functionality where it is needed. Layer thicknesses of up to 50 µm are possible, significantly improving the mechanical stability and service life of various components where required. All in all, PLATUNA^® PT sets completely new quality standards for medical technology applications.

Sensors and diagnostics

Platinum platings are essential for medical sensors because they ensure stable and precise signal transmission. Whether in pH or glucose sensors, oxygen measurement systems, or ECG electrodes, platinum's high electrical conductivity and chemical inertness ensure reliable measurement results even during long-term applications in the body. The smooth, pore-free surface of PLATUNA^® PT also enables precise control of the sensor properties and significantly improves the reproducibility of measurements.

Implant technology

Platinum is one of the few metals that does not cause toxic reactions, even in long-term implants. With PLATUNA^® PT, it is possible to coat components such as electrodes in pacemakers, cochlear implants, or neurostimulators with high-purity platinum—with layer thicknesses of up to 50 µm. This thickness enables improved mechanical stability and targeted functionalization of the surface, for example, to control electrical impulse transmission or to integrate microstructures.

Catheter technology and interventional medicine

Platinum-plated components play a central role in interventional medicine. Platinum markers enable the precise positioning of catheters under X-ray guidance, which is a decisive advantage in minimally invasive procedures. Electrodes in ablation catheters or stimulation systems benefit from the high conductivity and corrosion resistance of PLATUNA^® PT platings. The ability to apply thicker layers also allows the integration of additional functions, such as thermal insulation or targeted current distribution.

Connection technology and contacting

Reliable electrical connections are crucial in medical devices such as diagnostic and therapy systems. Platinum platings with PLATUNA^® PT offer an extremely stable contact surface with minimal contact resistance - even with frequent plugging and unplugging or under sterile conditions. The high hardness of the plating (approx. 350 HV) ensures mechanical robustness, while its chemical inertness guarantees a long service life.

Surgical instruments and microcomponents

Platinum-plated components are also used in microsurgery and high-precision instruments. Its excellent dimensional stability makes PLATUNA^® PT the ideal solution for precision engineering applications. In addition, its smooth, high-gloss finish makes it easy to clean and sterilize, contributing to hygiene in the operating room.

Laboratory and analysis technology

Platinum plating with PLATUNA^® PT is a key element in laboratory and analysis technology, for example in electrodes for electrochemical measuring systems, evaporation dishes, or microfluidic sensors. The high chemical resistance and electrical conductivity of platinum ensure precise and stable measurement results, even under extreme conditions. The smooth, pore-free surface improves cleanability and minimizes contamination risks, which is particularly advantageous in sensitive analysis processes.

Find customized solutions for your medical applications

As with all our products, our experts are at your side from the initial idea to series production and beyond. You receive in-depth advice on your requirements profile, an economically optimized cost calculation, representative prototypes from our test center, and technical support at your site or that of your service provider.