Optimising UHMWPE/BaTiO₃ Nanocomposites for Biomedical Applications: Role of Surface Functionalisation in Enhancing Performance

The advancement of sophisticated polymer nanocomposites for load-bearing orthopedic implants necessitates remarkable mechanical strength, wear resistance, and biocompatibility [1]. This study focuses on the reinforcement of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) with barium titanate (BaTiO 3 ) nanoparticles, aiming to produce nanocomposites that exhibit amended performance characteristics. The fabrication process employed solvent dispersion, followed by compression moulding. A comprehensive evaluation was performed, which integrated mechanical testing, tribological analysis, and wettability assessment, in addition to further characterisations. After the initial performance, the composites were optimised through the functionalisation of BaTiO 3 with a silane coupling agent to enhance interfacial adhesion between the polymer matrix and the filler [2]. The effects of this functionalisation were gauged through mechanical and tribological characterisations. Additionally, bioactivity tests were performed by immersing the composites in simulated body fluid to assess their ability to form hydroxyapatite. The study demonstrated that unfunctionalized nanocomposites possess advantageous tribological properties. Surface functionalisation resulted in improved mechanical properties and wear resistance when compared to the unfunctionalized composites. This research highlights the potential of both unfunctionalized and functionalised UHMWPE/BaTiO 3 nanocomposites for load-bearing implant applications, emphasising the considerable performance benefits achieved through surface functionalisation.