Abstract
Radical reaction pathways govern the cross-linking, degradative, and stabilization reactions of UHMWPE. For these reactions to occur, macroradicals must be induced in the polymer, for example, by high-energy radiation or by thermal or photo decomposition of hydroperoxides and peroxides, which leads to homolytic bond scissions with the production of macroradicals. In previous chapters, we have often referred to cross-linking and degradation of UHMWPE, but not described the chemical mechanisms associated with these pathways in great detail. As noted previously, during irradiation, a cascade of chemical reactions may occur in UHMWPE depending upon the environmental conditions. This chapter describes in detail the chemical reactions that take place in either pure- or vitamin E-stabilized UHMWPE during irradiation and subsequent exposure to oxygen and their consequences in the preparation of the prosthetic components.
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