Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part B Applied Biomaterials · 2008 · 23 citations · 27 references
Natural SciencesMaterials EngineeringMaterials SciencePolymer ChemistryPolymer EngineeringPolymer MaterialsPolymer CharacterizationPolymer Physical ChemistryPolymer PhysicsPolymer StructureRadiation Damage In MaterialsRadiation-resistant MaterialsDouble BondsMechanical PerformanceMechanical Properties Under IrradiationPolyethylenePolymer Radiation DamagePolymer Wear ResistanceTensile StrengthUltra-high-molecular-weight Polyethylene
Ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) was modified by a 5-MeV energy electron beam at different temperatures before, during, and after irradiation, both in air and in high vacuum. Wear resistance, hardness, and tensile strength of irradiated polyethylene were compared with those of untreated one. Physical analyses (like infrared spectroscopy and calorimetric analysis) were carried out to investigate about the changes in the material induced by irradiation. Experimental results suggested that structural changes (double bonds, crosslinks, and oxidized species formation) occur in the polymer depending on the environmental conditions of the irradiation. Mechanical behavior is related to the structural modifications. A temperature of 110 degrees C before, during, and after the in vacuum irradiation of UHMWPE produces a high amount of crosslinks and improves polymeric tensile and wear resistance, compared to that of the untreated material.
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