Determination of the thermal stability of poly(etheretherketone)/hydroxyapatite biocomposite formulations

摘要

The mechanical inadequacies of calcium phosphates, such as hydroxyapatite (HA), for load bearing medical implant applications has been extensively documented. Conversely, poly(etheretherketone) (PEEK) is a semi-crystalline polymer with excellent mechanical properties, high chemical resistance and good thermal stability. Hence, composite formulations combining the properties of PEEK with the bioactivity of HA, may have potential for use in load bearing implants. However, since the utilisation of such systems requires processing at relatively high temperatures (approx approx 400 deg C), it is important that any changes to the polymer that might be caused by the presence of the bioceramic component be fully understood.