UHMWPE Composite Material for Joint Implants

DESCRIPTIONprovided by applicantIn this SBIR Phase II projectthe mechanical and fatigue related properties of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethyleneUHMWPEjoint implant materials will be improved by creating a composite material with carbon reinforcementsUHMWPE has long been widely used as wear surfaces in joint implantsand further improvements to its wear resistance have been obtained by cross linking the polyethylene chainsHoweverthe cross linking process also degrades some mechanical propertiesincluding toughnessfatigue and yield strengthsIncorporating carbon reinforcements into UHMWPE through the manner described will improve the strengthcrack propagation resistance and creep resistance of UHMWPE without compromising its low wear rateThe carbon reinforcements will impart unmatched dimensional stability and toughness to the UHMWPE matrixMoreoveras the wear surface remainsprimarilyUHMWPEthe outstanding wear resistance of UHMWPE will be maintainedif not improved through the mechanical enhancementsSeveral of these hypotheses were validated during Phase I by preparing composite materials under various formation conditionsand then assessing their mechanical and tribological propertiesShould the new UHMWPE materials perform according as expectedthe benefits would include longer lasting implants that are less prone to mechanically induced failureThe composite materials would therefore require fewer revision procedures and maintain functionality longera critical need as life expectancy increases are causing people to outlive their implants