Aging effect on the tribological behavior of a novel 3Y-TZP/ nb biocomposite against ultra high molecular weight polyethylene

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the friction and wear behavior of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) against 3Y-TZP and a novel 3Y-TZP/niobium (Nb) biocomposite. The ceramic and the biocomposite materials were subjected to an accelerated aging process to evaluate the changes in the tribological behavior after this treatment. To carry out the tribological tests, a reciprocating pin-on-flat contact configuration was used. The results show a lower friction coefficient and wear rate for biocomposite/UHMWPE couples than those for 3Y-TZP/UHMWPE couples. The present study demonstrates that the excellent wear properties of this new biocomposite should never be influenced by aging. Based on these data, the potential of zirconia-Nb as an alternative bearing biomaterial is discussed. © 2012 The American Ceramic Society.