Menu Close

Researchers create artificial cartilage that lubricates

Researchers have produced a material able to mimmic the shock-absorbing and lubricating characteristics of cartilage. Previously, artificial cartilage has only been able to replicate the mechanical properties of cartilage.

The material contains many tiny pores filled with fluid. The fluid acts as a lubricant and absorbs pressure when the material is compressed. This protects the material from wear and tear.

Although only in the early stages of research, the researchers hope this new technology could be used in the future to extend the life of joint replacements from 15 to 20 years to 40 to 50 years.

Read more at Deakin University

Want to write?

Write an article and join a growing community of more than 180,900 academics and researchers from 4,921 institutions.

Register now