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Surface characterization for ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene/hydroxyapatite gradient composites prepared by
Xiaomei Shi1, Yuezhen Bin, Daishui Hou
1Department of Polymer Science and Materials, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, People's Republic of China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|February 19, 2013
Summary
This study enhances hip implant longevity by creating ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and hydroxyapatite (HA) composites. The novel processing yields superior wear resistance and reduced friction for acetabular cups.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Orthopedic Implant Technology
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Hip prostheses are crucial in orthopedics for restoring mobility.
- Wear and friction of acetabular cups limit implant longevity.
- Improving material properties of bearing surfaces is essential for longer-lasting hip implants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop advanced ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and hydroxyapatite (HA) composites.
- To enhance the wear resistance and reduce surface friction of acetabular cup materials.
- To establish improved implant longevity for hip prostheses.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of UHMWPE/HA composites with varying HA content via sol-gel process.
- Hot-molding of composites to create a gradient HA content and achieve specific planar orientation.
- Characterization using polarized light-scattering, SEM, and FTIR to analyze surface properties and HA dispersion.
Main Results:
- A narrow molding temperature range (145-153 °C) induced predominant planar orientation of UHMWPE (110) planes.
- This orientation resulted in excellent wear resistance and low surface friction.
- Good dispersion of HA particles and high UHMWPE crystallinity were observed on the surface layer.
- A spongy-like tissue formation, attributed to a negative complex Poisson's ratio, contributed to crack resistance under bending stress.
Conclusions:
- The developed UHMWPE/HA gradient composites demonstrate significantly improved wear resistance and reduced friction.
- The specific processing method, particularly the narrow molding temperature range, is key to achieving desired material properties.
- These findings offer a promising approach for enhancing the longevity of hip prostheses.
