Artificial Joint Material Using Carbon Nanotubes
Summary
The sliding materials in conventional artificial joints (polyethylene and ceramics) are prone to wear, and so last for only about 20 years. Scientists at NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization) are trying to make sliding material that don’t wear by combining carbon nanotubes with the polyethylene and ceramics to create an entirely new material. Carbon nanotubes have a very high affinity with bone, making this possible. The company is currently in the stage of testing with animals, and will move on to clinical trials shortly. The new material for artificial joints composed of nano-biotechnology is expected to be on the market in ten years.
Keywords: artificial joint material, carbon nanotubes, NEDO
