What is Environmental Stress Cracking?
Environmental stress cracking (ESC) occurs when plastics are exposed to chemicals that disrupt structural bonds. Results include fogging, scoring, embrittlement, or cracking. Avoiding ESC damage requires multiple disinfectants at the point of care, which is impractical.
Environmental stress cracking is a frequent issue for healthcare facilities
There has been a 36% increase in healthcare-associated infections in the last 20 years.14 In an effort to protect their patients, healthcare facilities have increased their use of disinfectant wipes. However, damage caused by disinfectant wipes often results in costly premature replacement or repair of medical equipment.
