The Tribocorrosion / Orthopedic Implants technology platform is dedicated to the in-depth study of tribology (wear, friction) and corrosion phenomena affecting medical implants, particularly orthopedic prostheses. Thanks to state-of-the-art equipment and interdisciplinary expertise, this platform allows for the characterization and optimization of implantable materials to improve their durability, biocompatibility, and clinical performance.
Platform Objectives
- Analyze biocorrosion mechanisms in complex electrochemical environments simulating physiological fluids.
- Study the tribological behavior of friction couples (metal/polyethylene, ceramic/ceramic) to minimize the production of debris (wear particles).
- Evaluate fretting-corrosion resistance at the modular connections of implants (Morse tapers).
- Optimize surface treatments and new alloys to extend the lifespan of prostheses and avoid revision surgeries.
Equipment and Techniques
The platform features specialized instrumentation to reproduce in vivo stresses:
- Gait simulator (ISO 14242 standard)
A test bench simulating real walking cycles for hip prostheses, allowing wear measurement over several million cycles. - Fretting-Corrosion Device
Specific equipment for studying micro-displacements under load in corrosive environments, simulating the minute friction between implant components. - Dynamic Impact Machine
Capable of applying impact forces up to 9 kN in 15 ms, simulating accidental events or physiological load peaks. - Electrochemistry Benches and Potentiostats
Advanced measurements of corrosion currents and surface potentials in real-time during friction. - Profilometry and Surface Characterization
High-resolution analysis of roughness and material volume loss after testing.
Applications
The platform supports innovation projects for clinicians and industrial partners:
- Optimization of Joint Prostheses
Reduction of wear in hip, knee, and shoulder prostheses. - Expertise on Wear Debris
Study of particle size and morphology to evaluate their inflammatory potential. - Development of Protective Coatings
Testing of thin films and innovative surface treatments. - Post-Explantation Expertise
Failure analysis on implants removed from patients to understand the causes of failure.
Partnerships and Impact
The platform collaborates closely with academic teams, notably the Biomaterials Engineering (BioMat) department, and industrial partners in the medical device sector. These collaborations contribute to the development of durable and secure orthopedic solutions, meeting the growing needs of patients and healthcare professionals.
Contact
Head of the TriboCorrosion / Orthopedic Implants technology platform.
Through this work, the Tribocorrosion / Orthopedic Implants platform plays a key role in improving the performance of medical implants and reducing complications associated with existing devices.