Abstract
Abstract Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been used in total joint arthroplasty for over 50 years. Conventionally, smooth UHMWPE surfaces are used for total joint replacements; however, smooth surface contacts have been shown to be inadequate in friction reduction and/or anti-wear. More recently, micro-textured surfaces have been investigated for reduction of the friction and wear of two contact interfaces. Unfortunately, the tribological behavior of textured UHMWPE surfaces requires further research to understand its tribological behavior. A numerical model is presented to understand the potential use of specially textured surfaces to improve the tribological properties of UHMWPE. A two dimensional, transient form of Reynolds equation was used to model the lubrication condition of the textured surfaces. The effects of area densities and pore depths over varying diameters were examined for several textured geometries including circle, rectangle, square and triangle. The simulation results show that the surface texturing can effectively be used to enhance hydrodynamic effects. More specifically, it was shown that the rectangular surface texture displayed superior characteristics over the other geometries investigated. The results provide a theoretical reference for the tribological design of surface texture on UHMWPE.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
