Manufacturing of PEEK-PDMS Composite Materials for Intervertebral Disc Implants

The current treatment approach for lower back pain caused by intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration involves the use of PEEK (polyether ether ketone) polymer or titanium alloy based spinal cages to replace the degenerated IVD. However, this method not only restricts the natural mobility of the vertebrae but also fails to mimic the structure and function of the human IVD with a single material. Additionally, the use of high-hardness materials may lead to vertebral settling, further contributing to lower back pain. Therefore, this study is dedicated to utilizing high-biocompatibility polymer (PEEK and Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)) composites to create an artificial IVD closely mimics the real intervertebral disc. Through adjusting the manufacture parameters, the proportion of PEEK and PDMS, and the porosity we were able to achieve the elastic modulus that is close to those of humans' IVD. Furthermore, the dual-layer structure can better replicate the functions and structure of human intervertebral disc then spinal cage.