In the world of diagnostics, the materials used in tests are not just important—they are critical. Porex explains how they influence everything from the accuracy of results to the speed and reliability of testing.
Porex
At Porex, we understand that the choice of materials can be the difference between a correct diagnosis and a costly error. Our journey in diagnostics started with the introduction of midstream urine wicks for pregnancy tests and has expanded to include a wide range of materials that are now integral to many diagnostic tests.
Why should you care about the materials in your diagnostic tests? Because the right materials ensure precise and dependable results, which are essential for patient care and medical decision-making. Poor material choices can lead to inaccurate results, delayed diagnoses, and increased healthcare costs. At Porex, we have seen firsthand how high-quality materials enhance the performance of diagnostic tests, from delivering samples at optimal speeds to ensuring they are free from contaminants. This focus on quality and reliability is what sets us apart and drives our commitment to excellence in diagnostics.
The importance of materials in diagnostic tests
Materials in diagnostic tests must meet high standards. They need to deliver samples at the right speed, ensure accuracy, and be free from contaminants. Porex has been a part of this journey from the early days of home pregnancy tests to the current demand for traditional laboratory and point-of-care (POC) testing. The right materials can make a big difference in how tests perform. For instance, our CERTIFIED PURE POREX materials are designed to be free from interfering substances, ensuring the highest purity and accuracy.
Effective sample delivery and improved accuracy
Porex
One of the key factors in diagnostic testing is sample delivery. Porex wicks are engineered to deliver samples at the optimal speed. Our fibre technology provides an ideal capillary structure, which controls the delivery of the sample. This is particularly important in tests like pregnancy tests, where the speed and accuracy of sample delivery can affect the results.
Our materials also improve test result accuracy. For example, in lateral flow tests, the capillary flow rate is a critical performance parameter. The system is dynamic, and the formation of immunocomplexes at the test and control lines depends on the finite time period during which the components are close enough to bind. The capillary flow rate determines this time period, ensuring accurate results.
Meeting increased demands in point-of-care testing
The trend towards POC testing has increased the demands on material performance. Traditional testing methods often involve multiple steps, but POC testing consolidates these steps into a single device. This means there is reduced sample handling, decreased sample size, and increased speed—all of which put more demands on the materials used.
At Porex, we have developed materials that meet these demands. Our materials are used in various applications, from vents in diagnostic cartridges to absorbents for samples and reagents. Each material is designed to meet specific needs, ensuring the best performance for each test.
The role of materials in sample filtration and contaminant control
Sample filtration is another critical area where materials play a key role. Contaminants in samples can impact the accuracy of test results. Porex materials are designed to filter out these contaminants, ensuring that the samples are clean and ready for testing. For example, our materials can be used in saliva sample filtration, providing different levels of filtration to meet specific needs.
In addition to filtering samples, materials also need to prevent contaminants from entering the test devices. For instance, our PTFE venting materials allow airflow while blocking liquids and contaminants. This ensures that the samples remain uncontaminated, providing accurate and reliable test results.
Consistent performance and reproducible results
Consistency is key in diagnostic testing. The materials used must perform reliably across different batches and lots. At Porex, we ensure batch-to-batch reproducibility, providing consistent sample volumes and flow rates. This consistency is crucial for maintaining the accuracy and reliability of diagnostic tests.
One example of this is our midstream urine collection pads. By measuring the water absorption and wicking speed, we ensure that each pad performs consistently, providing reliable results every time. This level of consistency is essential for both at-home and POC testing, where quick and accurate results are critical.
The importance of choosing the right supplier
Selecting the right supplier for diagnostic materials is as important as choosing the right materials. A reliable supplier can ensure that the materials meet the necessary standards and are delivered on time. At Porex, we work closely with our clients to provide customised solutions that meet their specific needs. Our expertise in material science and our commitment to quality make us a trusted partner in the diagnostics industry.
Choosing the wrong supplier can lead to significant issues, such as product recalls and increased costs. For example, a supplier that provides materials with hydrophobic characteristics when the collection swab is intended to be hydrophilic can cause false negative results in diagnostic tests due to challenges with sample collection. This highlights the importance of working with a supplier who understands the unique needs of the diagnostics industry and can provide materials that meet those needs.
Final thoughts
Materials play a crucial role in the performance of diagnostic tests. The right materials can make a significant difference from sample delivery and accuracy to filtration and sustainability. At Porex, we are committed to providing high-quality materials that meet the needs of the diagnostics industry. Our material science and engineering design expertise make us a trusted partner for diagnostic material solutions.