Figure 12.

For application to sliding parts of artificial joints, an ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) conjugated with MWCNTs has been developed. (a) A UHMWPE socket (left panel) and an MWCNT-conjugated UHMWP socket (right panel) for use in sliding parts of artificial joints. (b) A prototype artificial joint with a socket made of CNTs. Having favorable characteristics that have not been achieved with conventional materials, that is, high wear resistance and low breakability, MWCNT-conjugated UHMWPE is suitable as a sliding parts material for artificial joints.