| | The focus of the Biomaterials Research Laboratory in Physics is to understand microscopic processes that bring about macroscopic changes in material properties. The lab employs a number of spectroscopic techniques to evaluate the production of free radicals in sterilized implants or radiation/plasma-modified polymers. Free Radical analysis has led to the development of new implant materials with improved wear properties and longer life. Over the last decade, the lab has expanded to provide analytical services for most of the world’s orthopedic manufacturers. The Physics Biomaterials Laboratory at the University of Memphis is collaborating with scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) in a research program to understand aging in weapons-related polymers. Formation and evolution of free radicals in relevant polymers are key to understanding their degradation and thus for predicting their useful lifetimes, which are important components of stockpile stewardship. LANL and University of Memphis scientists are currently investigating these materials and results are providing new insight into their long-term stability. Research projects include free radicals in biomaterials, analysis of polyethylene components for hip and knee replacements, and polyurethane binder in nuclear stockpile materials. We also investigate polymer aging, surface modification and sterilization effects and provide analytical services for the polymer and orthopedic industries. |
