Surface modification of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene by argon plasma

The generation of wear particles from the ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) counter-face of metal sliding pair is relatively high. These polyethylene wear particles lead to osteolysis and that result in the failure of the implant made with the sliding pair. Hence, an investigation has been carried out to enhance the wear resistance of UHMWPE by argon plasma surface modification of UHMWPE. Results show the argon plasma-treated UHMWPE gains high crosslink, which provides less adhesive force interactions between the materials. Thus, a lower value of steady state coefficient of friction can be obtained.