1*Research Scholar, University Institute of Chemical Technology, K. B. C. N. M. U. Jalgaon. Email: Phdharshal.pd88@gmail.com. Mobile: 9850162128. Orchid ID: https://orcid.org/0009-0000-4372-287X (Corresponding Author)
2Dean Academics, G H Raisoni College of Engineering and Management, Jalgaon. Email: spshekhawat@gmail.com. Mobile: 9423621653. Orchid ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8380-225X
3Professor & Director, University Institute of Chemical Technology (UICT) Engineering & Head of Pharmaceutical Technology. Email: goswamiakg1@gmail.com. Mobile: 9226946146. Orchid ID: https://orchid.org/0000-0002-4472-863X
Background: Medical-grade polymeric biomaterials, including polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), are extensively employed in orthopedic implant systems due to their favorable mechanical performance, biocompatibility, and established clinical reliability. Nevertheless, manufacturer datasheets frequently report mechanical properties across broad ranges, which may introduce variability and uncertainty in implant design, computational modelling, and performance prediction.
Methods: In the present study, Shore D hardness and compressive strength of medical-grade PEEK, PMMA, and UHMWPE were experimentally determined to establish precise mechanical property values directly relevant to load-bearing orthopedic applications. All testing was performed in accredited laboratories under standardized conditions, with specimen preparation conforming to established testing protocols. The experimentally obtained values were systematically compared with datasheet-reported ranges and previously published literature.
Results: The results revealed notable deviations from nominal datasheet values, particularly in compressive strength, underscoring the necessity of experimental validation prior to tribological evaluation or biomechanical modelling.
Conclusion: The validated mechanical property dataset generated herein provides robust input parameters for implant design, finite element analysis, and subsequent wear characterization of medical-grade polymeric biomaterials employed in hip and knee joint prostheses.
Keywords: Medical-grade Polymers, Biomaterials, PEEK, UHMWPE, PMMA, mechanical properties, compressive strength, Shore D hardness, orthopedic implants
How to cite this article: Deshmukh HP, Shekhawat SP, Goswami AK. Validation of Mechanical Property Variability in Medical-Grade Polymeric Biomaterials Used for Orthopedic Implants. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(13s): 272-279. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.13s.30
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None