Processing of Reduced Graphene Oxide Reinforced Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene for Orthopedic Implants

Abstract

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been used as a bearing material in total joint replacements due to its excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. The acetabular cup in total hip replacement and the tibial component in total knee replacement is widely fabricated from UHMWPE. The use of UHMWPE in total joint replacements is well established, and the goal is to improve its mechanical properties, wear resistance, and oxidation resistance. The quality and life span of the artificial joints can be further increased by enhancing the relevant mechanical properties of UHMWPE. The addition of filler material to UHMWPE is an effective way to enhance its relevant properties. In this study, relevant properties of UHMWPE were enhanced by incorporating an appropriate filler. Reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO) was selected as a filler material as it improves mechanical properties, wear resistance, toughness, and thermal stability. Graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized by Modified Hummer’s Method (MHM), and it was thermally reduced to obtain rGO. The synthesized GO was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) which confirmed the accurate synthesis. The reduction of GO was validated by the disappearance of (OH) broad peak in the FTIR analysis. The rGO/UHMWPE nanocomposite was prepared by adding 0.7 wt.% of rGO employing the solvent mixing method. The morphology of the composite was validated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Tensile and Izod Impact tests were performed on the samples which showed an increase in tensile strength of 33.2% and the impact strength increased by 140.5%. The rGO/UHMWPE nanocomposite with greater tensile and impact strength is an excellent candidate to produce orthopedic implants with superior properties.