Advances in wear and tribocorrosion testing of artificial implants and materials: A review

Long-term performance of implants replacing joints such as hip and knee depends on stability and low friction of articulating surfaces. The performance of these implants materials is affected by in vivo loading, movements and simultaneous actions of wear and corrosion. Therefore, understanding tribological and tribocorrosion behavior of articulating biomaterials require critical attention. This also necessitates the development of test methodologies simulating in vivo loading, movement and environmental conditions. This article reviews the importance of wear and tribocorrosion mechanisms associated with orthopaedic and dental implant failures. Current test methods for evaluating articulating biomaterials and their limitation have been discussed. Finally, new test methodologies that can simulate clinically relevant environments leading better understanding of tribological, electrochemical and their synergy have been reviewed.