The development of biocompatible materials with improved tribological properties is a key challenge in the creation of hip replacements. Traditional materials such as cobalt-chromium alloys and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) have their limitations, including wear and metal ion release. Composite materials that combine the advantages of different components represent a promising direction in this field.
Quasicrystals of the Al–Cu–Fe system have high hardness, corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. Their addition to the PSVM matrix can significantly improve wear resistance and reduce the friction coefficient of the composite material. However, due to the fragility of the quasicrystals, it is necessary to ensure their uniform distribution in the matrix and good adhesion between the components.
This study examines the possibility of creating composite materials based on PSVM reinforced with Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystals for use as materials for the acetabulum of a hip joint endoprosthesis. Optimization of the composition and technology for obtaining the composite is aimed at achieving an optimal combination of mechanical and tribological properties. Studies are conducted on the effect of the particle size of the quasicrystals, their concentration and the mixing method on the structure and properties of the composite material.
To study the possibility of using in hip arthroplasty, polymer composites based on Al-Cu-Fe quasicrystals and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) were developed and studied. Wear indices of UHMWPE friction pairs against a counterbody in the form of a steel ball made of grade 440 steel, as well as Al-Cu-Fe/UHMWPE composites were assessed. The mechanical strength of the Al-Cu-Fe/UHMWPE composite materials was compared with the strength of pure UHMWPE and composites based on aluminum oxide and UHMWPE. Biocompatibility of the developed composite was assessed by the direct contact method using cytotoxicity analysis. The results showed that the Al-Cu-Fe/UHMWPE composite is characterized by a lower wear volume and higher mechanical strength compared to pure UHMWPE. In addition, this composite material did not demonstrate an increase in the level of surface wear or cytotoxicity compared to UHMWPE. Based on the obtained data, it can be concluded that Al-Cu-Fe/UHMWPE composites are promising materials for use in hip arthroplasty.
In vitro studies show that Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystals/PSVMM composites have increased wear resistance and reduced formation of wear particles compared to pure PSVMM. This indicates the potential of using this composite material to reduce the risk of osteolysis and extend the service life of hip joint endoprosthesis.
Author: Brian C. Anderson, Paul D. Bloom, KG Baikerikar, Valerie V. Sheares, Surya K. Mallapragada
Institute: Department of Chemical Engineering, Iowa State University, 2114 Sweeney Hall, Ames, IA 50011-2230, USA
Department of Chemistry, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
Ames Laboratory, U.S. Department of Energy, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA