Preparation and Tribological Behaviors of Porous UHMWPE Using as Artificial Cartilage

Abstract

Porous ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) materials have been developed by Hot Press molding technique in this investigation. The tribological behaviors of porous UHMWPE with different initial NaCl content were studied. The worn surfaces of UHMWPE and porous UHMWPE samples were examined using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). It was found that the porous structure improved the wear resistance of porous UHMWPE with the proper initial NaCl content under water lubrication condition. The minimal wear loss was about 10.6mg in the case of the UHMWPE filled by 50% initial NaCl content, 43% less than that of pure UHMWPE sample.