The Best of Both Worlds: Hybrid Implant Imitates Bone Structure

Scientists from the National University of Science and Technology – MISIS have developed a unique hybrid bone implant, the core of which is made of porous ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), and the shell of polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Thanks to the combination of the unique properties of the two polymers, it was possible to create an implant that imitates the bone structure and is further reinforced to increase strength and elasticity. In addition, as the material consumption is reduced, the cost of such an implant will be lower than that of analogues. A paper detailing the results of the research was published in Materials Letters.1