This specification covers ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) powder and fabricated forms for use in surgical implants. UHMWPE powder shall be of virgin polymer manufactured from a homopolymer of ethylene, while the fabricated forms shall be manufactured from the same UHMWPE powder without any stabilizers or processing aids. Tests for viscosity number, elongation stress, ash content, extraneous matter, and trace elements shall be performed for UHMWPE powders, while tests for density, ash content, tensile strength, yield strength, elongation, and impact strength shall be performed for fabricated forms. All tests shall conform to the requirements specified.

1.1 This specification covers ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene powder (UHMWPE) and fabricated forms intended for use in surgical implants.

1.2 The requirements of this specification apply to UHMWPE in two forms. One is virgin polymer powder (Section 4). The second is any form fabricated from this powder from which a finished product is subsequently produced (Section 5). This specification addresses material characteristics and does not apply to the packaged and sterilized finished implant.

1.3 The provisions of Specification D 4020 apply. Special requirements detailed in this specification are added to describe material which will be used in surgical implants.

1.4 The biological response to polyethylene in soft tissue and bone has been well characterized by a history of clinical use (1, 2, 3) and by laboratory studies (4, 5, 6).

The following precautionary caveat pertains only to the test method portion, Section , of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.