Due to its excellent wear resistance and low friction coefficient, Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene or UHMWPE has been the material of choice for years in bearing surfaces for total joint arthroplasty. UHMWPE Homopolymer MG003 is the first medical grade for use in implantable devices. In addition, we are developing a new platform of easily cross-linking UH.
 

UHMWPE Homopolymer MG003

Benefits

The very long molecular chains of the material give the polymer a number of unique properties:

• Strength: it can be loaded 10-15 % higher before plastic deformation starts
• Excellent wear and fatigue resistance
• High and consistent quality and compliance, including all relevant levels of process validation and product traceability; the material meets the ASTM F648 / ISO 5834 standards type 3
• Consistent processability
• High purity: advanced impurity detection equipment was installed to maintain a constant high level of cleanliness

A new polyethylene polymer platform intended to improve the mechanical properties and long-term stability of hip and knee implants.

DSM Biomedical has developed an easily cross-linkable UHMWPE. The newly developed polymer platform creates a family of UHMWPE-polymers that incorporate small, highly reactive molecules that can produce the required cross-linking network at significantly lower radiation doses, thereby lessening the adverse effects on the polymer’s mechanical properties and allowing for stronger implants with better long-term stability. DSM Biomedical is the first company to apply this technique to UHMWPE.
 
 

• Current applications:
  • Orthopedic implants: used as a surface bearing material in total joint arthroplasty. The material is applied in artificial hips, knees, shoulders, elbows, wrists, ankles and spinal discs;
  • Fibers: The material is used by DSM as a raw material for the ultra strong Dyneema Purity® fiber, which is used in a number of medical devices, including orthopedic sutures and ligament fixation devices.
   
• Customized applications:
  Within our UHMwPE platforms, we can create specific grades with unique properties. We can also help you with processing techniques to further improve your devices. Contact us to discuss specific needs and requirements.