Abstract
Over the past three years we have investigated possibilities for the improvement of PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) bone cements through a molecular level approach. Results from initial efforts were previously reported, for example, higher toughness through the control of stereochemistry. The presence of stereoregular macromolecules can change properties in bone cement through crystallization, inter-chain complexation and higher levels of molecular motion at service temperature. Microscopic fracture of bone cement, thermally induced necrosis of bone, and residual monomer are all important factors in the clinical performance of this biomaterial. Thus, through stereostructure control, we seek improvement of properties such as lower polymerization exotherms, higher toughness, fatigue resistance, higher strength, and more complete monomer to polymer conversions in the system.
Original language | English (US) |
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Title of host publication | Transactions of the Annual Meeting of the Society for Biomaterials in conjunction with the International Biomaterials Symposium |
Editors | James M. Anderson |
Publisher | Soc for Biomaterials |
Pages | 344 |
Number of pages | 1 |
Volume | 7 |
State | Published - 1984 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Materials Science