Development of a BiotriboPOD testing methodology for the wear evaluation of orthopaedic biomaterials

Biotribological properties of orthopaedic biomaterials have significant influence on the wear performance of implants, and the bench wear evaluation of orthopaedic biomaterials is regarded as an important testing methodology. In this study, a 3-station Biotribo-POD apparatus was developed for the wear tests of orthopaedic biomaterials. Validation tests were carried out by using conventional ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), cross-linked UHMWPE and Fiber-enhanced polyethylene (Fiber-enhanced PE) pins sliding against CoCrMo disks. The performances of the BiotriboPOD apparatus together with the testing methodology are discussed. Results show that the Biotribo-POD apparatus can provide an efficient, reliable and economic methodology for the wear evaluation of orthopaedic biomaterials.