Avaliação e caracterização de preservativos masculinos de poliisopreno sintético.

Abstract

Male condoms plays a role in preventing pregnancy and reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases. These products have had a significant evolution in recent decades. Condoms of different models have been developed, including textured, flavored, ultra-fine, ultra-resistant, and more recently condoms made from synthetic materials such as synthetic polyisoprene intended to be used by individuals who develop allergic reactions to natural latex. The current Brazilian health surveillance regulations do not determine for mandatory certification of condoms made from synthetic materials, as it does to the natural latex condoms. Thus, this paper proposes the characterization of male condoms made of synthetic polyisoprene, which is one of the options currently available in the Brazilian and US markets, and the evaluation of these products compared to the requirements for natural latex condoms, and the discussion of the extension of the national regulation scope. Samples of two brands of synthetic polyisoprene condoms were obtained in Brazil and in the US and were characterized by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), evaluated in terms of dimensions, thickness, determination of the volumetric capacity and the bursting pressure, and check for holes and package integrity. The results demonstrate that both products have similar mechanical and physicochemical characteristics, confirming that the manufacturing processes are comparable and provide products that meet the requirements. Low levels of crystallinity and mechanical characteristics were confirmed, considering that the samples are made of amorphous polymers, type elastomer. The review of natural latex condoms certification regulation could include in its scope the products made of synthetic polyisoprene base.