Load-Dependent Frictional Performance of Vitamin E-Blended Ultrahigh Molecular Weight Polyethylene in Serum Lubricant

Abstract

The load-dependent frictional performance of vitamin E-blended ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in serum lubricant was examined. The UHMWPE specimens were slid against the surface of Co-28Cr-6Mo alloy by using a pin-on-disk friction test apparatus. The frictional performance of vitamin E-blended UHMWPE differed from that of virgin UHMWPE under 30 MPa loading, while little difference was observed under 3 MPa loading. The friction force of vitamin E-blended UHMWPE showed a lower value in initial friction and a higher value in steady state friction, and the variability of friction force in the transition process was relatively small. Frictional performance similar to that of the vitamin E-blended UHMWPE was observed as a result of applying vitamin E to the sliding surface of virgin UHMWPE. These results suggest that the frictional performance of vitamin E-blended UHMWPE in serum lubricant is affected by the presence of vitamin E on the sliding surface under high compressive load.

Keywords

• artificial knee joint
• uhmwpe
• vitamin e
• wear
• friction
• pressure leaching
• serum proteins