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Plasma Surface Modification of Medical-Grade Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene for Improved Tribological Properties

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 February 2011

C.M. Klapperich ,
K. Komvopoulos  and
L. Pruitt
C.M. Klapperich
Affiliation:
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
K. Komvopoulos
Affiliation:
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
L. Pruitt
Affiliation:
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
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Abstract

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is the principal material used to replace damaged cartilage in total joint replacement surgeries. This publication presents preliminary results from a new class of surface treatments to modify the surface chemistry and microstructure of UHMWPE under controlled processing conditions. Radio frequency plasmas were used to lightly crosslink the subsurface of UHMWPE and to modify the surface chemical state through the attachment of low-surface-energy fluorocarbon groups. A pin-on-disk apparatus was used to slide CoCrWNi pins with spherical tips on polished disks of plasma- treated and untreated UHMWPE immersed in a bath of preserved bovine serum. The wear resistance and surface chemical composition of tested specimens were characterized by surface profilometry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. Changes in the surface hydrophobicity due to plasma treatment were evaluated using contact angle measurements. The prospect of surface plasma treatment in orthopedic applications is elucidated in the context of the obtained friction, wear, distilled water contact angle, and XPS results.

Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Online Proceedings Library (OPL) , Volume 550: Symposium GG/HH/II – Biomedical Materials-Drug Delivery, Implants and Tissue Engr , 1998 , 331
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 1999

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