Abstract / scope
This document specifies a test method for investigating the oxidative stability of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) materials as a function of processing and sterilization method. This document describes a laboratory method for accelerated ageing of UHMWPE specimens and components for total joint prostheses. The UHMWPE is aged at elevated temperature and at elevated oxygen pressure, to accelerate oxidation of the material and thereby allow for the evaluation of its potential long-term chemical and mechanical stability.