Studies on polyethylene substrates modified by laser-assisted ion implantation

The physical modifications induced by ion implantation of ultra-high-molecular-weight-polyethylene (UHMWPE) by using a laser ion source (LIS) emitting multi-energy ion streams are investigated. A UV pulsed laser was employed to produce the plasma of the implanting material. The surface mechanical properties of UHMWPE depend on the implanted dose, which can enhance the surface micro-hardness and decrease the surface wetting, roughness and wear.