Ageing of UHMWPE in presence of simulated synovial fluid

In this paper, the biomedical grade Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been soaked at different temperatures in Simulated Synovial Fluid (SSF); diffusion coefficient, hardness, roughness and wettability evaluated. Then, 37°C (body temperature) soaked-polyethylene sample was aged 80°C monitored by InfraRed spectroscopy (oxidation trackers) GPC (for molar mass changes) to observe long-term degrading action of SSF. Finally, a kinetic model performed simulate ageing. Results highlighted as SFF smooths material's surface, diffusing within polymer helped temperature growth. The oxidation study stated that PE is more degraded SSF with significant decrease molecular weight factor 2 if ageing 80°C. Simulation models are effective theoretically reproduce pro-degradation mechanisms induced on UHMWPE