Gamma irradiation’s effect on the performance of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene/hydroxyapatite composite

Ionizing radiation, such as gamma rays and electron beams, is very effective for sterilizing medical devices. However, the radiation-sterilization process may have an impact on the device’s performance. As a result, it is critical to ensure that the characteristics of the medical devices remain consistent following the radiation sterilization process. Here, we report the effects of 25 kGy of gamma irradiation on the mechanical and thermal properties of the ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)/hydroxyapatite (HA) composites. In addition, the morphological and structural properties of the UHMWPE/HA composites were also investigated using a scanning electron microscope and an X-ray diffraction spectrometer, respectively. The results showed that adding HA to UHMWPE has no effect on the mechanical properties of unirradiated and 25 kGy gamma-irradiated UHMWPE/HA composites (p>0.05). The differential scanning thermograms of the UHMWPE/HA revealed that the addition of HA to the UHMWPE slightly increases its thermal stability. These results demonstrate that 25 kGy of gamma irradiation does not negatively affect the properties of the UHMWPE/HA composite.