Technology Assessment & Transfer, Inc.

Mark Patterson

Larry Lee Fehrenbacher

Walter R Zimbeck

Dave McQuiston

Material compositions for use in orthopedic implants comprising blends of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and hard ceramic powders prepared by blending powdered UHMWPE and the ceramic powder in a high shear mixer are described. Orthopedic implants are then fabricated by pressure/thermo-forming the ceramic/polymer blend into a net shape prosthesis or a rod suitable for subsequently machining the desired components using diamond tooling. Net shape forming is the preferred method for preparing the orthopedic implants.

Ceramic particulate reinforced orthopedic implants

Non-oxide debond coated reinforcing fibers that are resistant to oxidation at temperatures above about 1200&deg; C. are described. The debond coatings are non-hygroscopic, and exhibit debond performance equal to or better than the prior art such coatings. The coated fibers of the present invention comprise a non-oxide fiber with or without a thin conventionally applied pyrolytic carbon layer overcoated with a non-hygroscopic silicon and titanium containing single or multi-layer structure that imparts all of the properties demanded of a debond coating while additionally providing exceptional oxidation resistance protection.

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Annapolis, MD, United States of America

Mark Patterson