Tribocorrosion reactions between metal-on-metal and metal-on-polymer surfaces for total hip replacement

摘要

The open circuit potential and linear polarisation resistance were measured during pin-on-plate tribometer tests for three different total hip replacement bearing material combinations in 0.35% NaCl and bovine serum solutions. In addition, surface analysis was performed using laser interferometry and focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy. It was found that the level of tribologically enhanced corrosion taking place at the bearing surface was substantially higher for metal-on-metal tribocouples than metal-on-polymer ones. Tribological depassivation may be reduced by the presence of organic boundary lubricants.