Friction coefficient during the reciprocating sliding of UHMWPE in different environments

Abstract

Dynamic friction coefficient (COF) of the reciprocating sliding contact of UHMWPE, was investigated in four different environments (dry contact; distilled water; pure Ringer's solution and with PMMA particles), at five values of low normal load (0.1 – 1 N) and three values of sliding speed (4 – 12 mm/s). Significant differences of COF values occurred at low load (0.1 N), whereas sliding speed did not influence COF values. Addition of PMMA particles in Ringer's solution produced significant increase of COF values, especially at the lowest load of 0.1 N.