Development of biomimetic bearing with hydrated materials

Abstract

In order to produce a biomimetic bearing made from a hydrated material, a polyvinyl formal (PVF) bearing that mimics articular cartilage has been proposed. PVF has material and tribological properties that reflect the different internal structures resulting from different parameters used in the PVF formation process. Reciprocating and multidirectional wear tests were performed, and plastic deformation attributed to pore deformation was observed; however, microscopic observations did not reveal any damage due to friction. PVF exhibited high wearresistance properties, and it is concluded that the proposed bearing overcomes the problem of low wear-resistance in bearing materials capable of developing hydration lubrication. Copyright © 2009 by The Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers.