Orthopedic Implant and Orthotic Applications

The combination of biocompatibility, toughness, abrasion resistance, self-lubrication and flexibility of part design have led to the successful use of GUR® UHMW-PE in orthopedic implants for over forty years.  As a result, GUR UHMW-PE is the most frequently used material and global leader for articulating bearing surfaces in orthopedic implant technology, including applications for hips, knees and shoulders.

With a molecular weight of polyethylene in the range of 5.5-10 million g/mol as measured by internationally accepted methods, excellent values are obtained  for a number of technically important properties including:

• Outstanding notched impact strength
• Excellent wear resistance
• High-energy absorption capacity
• Very good stress crack resistance
• Extremely low coefficient of friction
• Proven physiological compatibility since the 1960s

In order to obtain the desired product properties, GUR UHMW-PE is typically processed as a powder polymer by ram extrusion or compression molding methods, due to its extremely high molecular weight.  

GUR UHMW-PE complies with USP Class VI and applicable FDA regulations, as well as with standards ASTM F648 and ISO 5834-1/-2 for raw materials and semi-finished products.

GUR UHMW-PE is also an excellent candidate for orthotic components and can be imprinted using common printing techniques.

For further information on UHMWPE's role in orthopedic surgical implants, please click here or on the UHMWPE Lexicon icon located to the left of this page. Information on this site includes processing and performance details, publications and reports as well on the status of ISO and ASTM standards.