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Self-Reinforced Composite Materials: Frictional Analysis and Its Implications for Prosthetic Socket Design
Yogeshvaran R Nagarajan1,2, Yasasween Hewavidana3, Emrah Demirci3
1School of Engineering and Sustainable Development, De Montfort University, The Gateway, Leicester LE1 9BH, UK.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 27, 2024
Summary
This study evaluated self-reinforced polymers (SrPs) for prosthetic sockets. While common plastics showed lower friction, SrPET demonstrated promising low friction and wear, suggesting potential for sustainable prosthetic design.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Tribology
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Prosthetic sockets are vital for lower-limb prostheses, traditionally made from bulk polymers or fiber-reinforced composites.
- Existing materials face challenges in accessibility, affordability, and sustainability, especially in resource-limited settings.
- Self-reinforced polymer composites (SRPCs) offer potential sustainable alternatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the tribological behavior of SRPCs, including poly-lactic acid (PLA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), glass fibre (GF), and carbon fibre (CF).
- To compare the friction and wear characteristics of SRPCs against commonly used materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP).
- To assess the suitability of SRPCs for prosthetic socket applications based on their durability and wear resistance.
Main Methods:
- Experimental friction tests were conducted on various SRPCs (SrPLA, SrPET, SrGF, SrCF) and conventional polymers (HDPE, PP).
- Tests were performed under varying loads and rotational speeds to evaluate coefficients of friction (COF).
- Microscopic analysis was used to assess wear depth and examine debris formation on the counter-surface (steel ball).
Main Results:
- HDPE and PP exhibited lower COF than all tested SRPCs.
- SrPLA recorded the highest average COF (0.45), while SrPET showed the lowest (0.15) under tested conditions.
- Wear analysis indicated SrPLA had the most significant wear, followed by SrCF, SrGF, and SrPET. Debris from reinforcements adhered to the steel ball, affecting COF.
Conclusions:
- SrPET demonstrates potential as a durable and wear-resistant material for prosthetic sockets due to its low COF.
- While conventional polymers show lower friction, SRPCs offer a path towards more sustainable prosthetic solutions.
- Tribological analysis is crucial for optimizing prosthetic socket design, with further research needed on skin-contact scenarios.
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