IMPROVING THE LONG-TERM DURABILITY OF POLYMERS USED IN BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS.

Hydrophobic surfaces can improve the long-term mechanical response of polymers by delaying their degradation caused by moisture absorption over time. This improvement in long-term mechanical performance can significantly increase the lifespan of polymers used in various biomedical applications, such as total joint replacement prostheses applications. Although a number of surface modification techniques have been developed over the years, such as introduction of various textures on the surface; their specific influences on hydrophobicity enhancement as well as long-term mechanical performance are yet to be fully understood.