ASTM F 2027 : 2025 : REDLINE

1.1This document provides guidance on writing a materials specification for raw or starting materials intended for use in tissue engineering scaffolds for growth, support, or delivery of cells and/or biomolecules. This guide does not apply to materials that are already in a scaffold form or are finished tissue-engineered medical products.

1.2The purpose of this guide is to provide a compendium of relevant existing standards and test methods for materials already commonly used within medical products and to provide characterization guidance for interim use of raw materials for which a standard does not exist.

1.3This guide covers potential attributes for specifications and characterizations of all the major classes of materials including polymers, ceramics, metals, composites, and natural tissues of human, animal, or plant origin. This guide does not apply to pharmaceuticals.

1.4This guide is focused on specification of chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of the raw or starting material. It does not include safety and biocompatibility requirements since safety and biocompatibility testing is typically done on materials fabricated into a final form to include all possible effects of fabrication and sterilization techniques.

1.5Compliance with materials specifications developed in accordance with this standard may not necessarily result in a material suitable for its intended purpose. Additional testing specific to the intended use may be required.

1.6This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.