Derived From Ethylene Patents (Class 522/161)
-
Patent number: 10851226Abstract: The invention is directed to HDPE having a quotient of melt strength according to ISO 16790:2005 and apparent viscosity according to ISO 11443:2014 (melt strength/apparent viscosity)>2 cN/k·Pa·s and ?30 cN/k·Pa·s. In a preferred embodiment, HDPE with an Ml in the range between ?0.1 and ?10 a density in the range between ?935 and ?970 kg/m3 a gel fraction less than 5% and an elasticity (ratio of G?/G? at 0.1 rad/sec) between ?0.6 and ?10 is obtained by chain branching HDPE with an Ml in the range between ?10 and ?100 a density in the range between ?935 and ?970 kg/m3 and an elasticity (ratio of G?/G? at 0.1 rad/sec) between ?0.01 and ?0.2.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2016Date of Patent: December 1, 2020Assignee: SABIC GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES B.V.Inventors: Niclasina Siberta Johanna Alberdina Gerrits, Harmen Maria Hendrik de Jonge, Martin Antonius van Es, Peter Emmanuel Joseph Cuijpers
-
Patent number: 10094763Abstract: A microviable particle counting system includes: a microviable particle counting instrument configured to detect autofluorescence of a microviable particle in a sample as fluid, thereby counting the microviable particle in the sample; and a former-stage irradiator provided at a former stage of the microviable particle counting instrument to irradiate the sample with ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light contains first ultraviolet light having such a wavelength that a carbon-carbon covalent bond is disconnected, and the first ultraviolet light has a wavelength shorter than 200 nm.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2017Date of Patent: October 9, 2018Assignee: RION Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kazuma Sekimoto
-
Patent number: 9971267Abstract: Oxidation resistant crosslinked ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is described, wherein at least two different additives in the manufacture synergistically increase the oxidation resistance of crosslinked UHMWPE. This allows the manufacture of oxidation resistant crosslinked UHMWPE using lower levels of additives and/or lower levels of crosslinking irradiation or chemicals. The lower levels of additives and/or crosslinking produce crosslinked UHMWPE having desired physical properties not possible without the synergistic interaction of the additives. This crosslinked UHMWPE may be used in medical prostheses such as in bearing components having desired physical properties such as wear resistance and oxidation resistance not possible without the synergistic interaction of the additives.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2017Date of Patent: May 15, 2018Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.Inventors: Mark L. Morrison, Vivek D. Pawar, Lorenz Brunner, Shilesh C. Jani
-
Patent number: 9907660Abstract: An orthopedic prosthetic joint comprising a joint couple having a first bearing surface made of a poly aryl ether ketone (PAEK) and a second joint component having a second bearing made of a polymer that is softer than the PAEK such as UHMWPE the first and second bearing surfaces in sliding engagement with one another.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2010Date of Patent: March 6, 2018Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.Inventors: Aiguo Wang, Zongtao Zhang, Daniel E. Lawrynowicz, Shi-Shen Yau
-
Patent number: 9828474Abstract: A method for producing a wear resistant polyethylene medical implant includes forming a medical implant, such as an orthopedic implant, made at least partially of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The polyethylene may be irradiated with gamma ray or e-beam radiation to form free radicals and then crosslinked to eliminate free radicals prior to exposure to oxygen. The so treated bearing surface of the crosslinked polyethylene is then coated with a photoinitiator. Thereafter the bearing material is photocrosslinked with ultra-violet (UV) radiation. The photocrosslinking process can also be applied to non-crosslink UHMWPE.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2015Date of Patent: November 28, 2017Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.Inventors: Shulin He, Zongtao Zhang, Keenan Michael Hanson, Shi-Shen Yau
-
Patent number: 9650476Abstract: A method of producing an improved polyethylene, especially an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene utilizes a sequential irradiation and annealing process to form a highly cross-linked polyethylene material. The use of sequential irradiation followed by sequential annealing after each irradiation allows each dose of irradiation in the series of doses to be relatively low while achieving a total dose which is sufficiently high to cross-link the material. The process may either be applied to a preformed material such as a rod or bar or sheet made from polyethylene resin or may be applied to a finished polyethylene part.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2015Date of Patent: May 16, 2017Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.Inventors: Aiguo Wang, John H. Dumbleton, Aaron Essner, Shi-Shen Yau
-
Patent number: 9433705Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for making cross-linked oxidation-resistant polymeric materials and preventing or minimizing in vivo elution of antioxidant from the antioxidant-containing polymeric materials. The invention also provides methods of doping polymeric materials with a spatial control of cross-linking and antioxidant distribution, for example, vitamin E (?-Tocopherol), and methods for extraction/elution of antioxidants, for example, vitamin E (?-tocopherol), from surface regions of antioxidant-containing polymeric materials, and materials used therewith also are provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2013Date of Patent: September 6, 2016Assignees: The General Hospital Corp., Cambridge Polymer Group, Inc.Inventors: Orhun K. Muratoglu, Edward T. Kopesky, Ebru Oral
-
Patent number: 9302028Abstract: The present invention presents methods for making oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and medical implants made therefrom. Preferably, the implants are components of prosthetic joints, e.g., a bearing component of an artificial hip or knee joint. The resulting oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and implants are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2014Date of Patent: April 5, 2016Assignee: ORTHOPAEDIC HOSPITALInventors: Harry A. McKellop, Fu-Wen Shen
-
Patent number: 9242025Abstract: The present invention presents methods for making oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and medical implants made therefrom. Preferably, the implants are components of prosthetic joints, e.g., a bearing component of an artificial hip or knee joint. The resulting oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and implants are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2014Date of Patent: January 26, 2016Assignee: ORTHOPAEDIC HOSPITALInventors: Harry A. McKellop, Fu-Wen Shen
-
Patent number: 9155817Abstract: The present invention presents methods for making oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and medical implants made therefrom. Preferably, the implants are components of prosthetic joints, e.g., a bearing component of an artificial hip or knee joint. The resulting oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and implants are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2014Date of Patent: October 13, 2015Assignee: Orthopaedic HospitalInventors: Harry A. McKellop, Fu-Wen Shen
-
Patent number: 9017590Abstract: Solid-state deformation processing of crosslinked high molecular weight polymers such as UHMWPE, for example by extrusion below the melt transition, produces materials with a combination of high tensile strength and high oxidative stability. The materials are especially suitable for use as bearing components in artificial hip and other implants. Treated bulk materials are anisotropic, with enhanced strength oriented along the axial direction. The material is oxidatively stable even after four weeks of accelerated aging in a pressure vessel containing five atmospheres of oxygen (ASTM F2003). Because of its oxidative stability, the deformation processed material is a suitable candidate for air-permeable packaging and gas sterilization, which has thus far been reserved for remelted crosslinked UHMWPE.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2013Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Biomet Manufacturing, LLCInventors: David W. Schroeder, Jordan H. Freedman, James E. Gunter, Brian D. Salyer, H. Gene Hawkins
-
Publication number: 20150096264Abstract: The present invention presents methods for making oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and medical implants made therefrom. Preferably, the implants are components of prosthetic joints, e.g., a bearing component of an artificial hip or knee joint. The resulting oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and implants are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2014Publication date: April 9, 2015Inventors: Harry A. McKellop, Fu-Wen Shen
-
Patent number: 8940809Abstract: The present invention provides a process for producing electret fine particles or coarse powder that can be uniformly electrified and exhibits excellent electrophoretic properties. Specifically, the present invention relates to the production processes (1) and (2) below: (1) A process for producing electret fine particles, comprising emulsifying a fluorine-containing material that contains a vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene-tetrafluoroethylene terpolymer in a liquid that is incompatible with the fluorine-containing material to obtain emulsified particles; and subjecting the emulsified particles to electron ray irradiation, radial ray irradiation, or corona discharge treatment.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2011Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Sakura Color Products CorporationInventors: Tomochika Yoshitsugi, Hiroshi Inoue
-
Patent number: 8940810Abstract: An optical component and an electrical board that have a low coefficient of linear expansion and small mold shrinkage, a method for producing the optical component, and a method for producing the electronic board are provided. An optical component includes a polymer having a repeating structural unit represented by general formula (1) where R1 and R2 each independently represent —H or —CH3; m and n each independently represent an integer in the range of 0 to 3; asterisk denotes a dangling bond that bonds to one of Xa and Xb; and —H bonds to the other one of Xa and Xb.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2013Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Ryo Ogawa, Seiji Okada
-
Patent number: 8901201Abstract: A durable ambient light curable waterproof liquid rubber coating with volatile organic compound (VOC) content of less than 450 grams per liter made from ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) in a solvent, a photoinitiator, an additive, pigments, and fillers, and a co-agent and a method for making the formulation, wherein the formulation is devoid of thermally activated accelerators.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2014Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignee: Lion Copolymer Geismar, LLCInventors: Michael J. Molnar, Daniel S. Nelson, Arthur J. Fontenot, III, Harold William Young, Jr., Augusto Caesar Ibay, Zhiyong Zhu
-
Patent number: 8871131Abstract: Provided are processes comprising crosslinking polyethylene or using crosslinked polyethylene. Furthermore, the processes may include compacting and/or sintering the polyethylene. The polyethylene can comprise virgin ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene having a weight average molecular weight of at least 1,000,000 g/mol, to provide a compacted composition comprising virgin ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2006Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Smith and Nephew Orthopaedics AGInventors: Hans Schmotzer, Yvo Dirix, Paul Smith, Theo Tervoort, Lorenz Brunner
-
Publication number: 20140316011Abstract: The invention described herein provides a modified material is a packaging material in which, at least one side, the product contact side, has been modified to sequester ions in order to prevent the ions from being available to promote degradative reactions in biological or chemical products such as food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, neutraceuticals, cosmetics, paints and chemicals. The invention described herein also includes methods of making the packaging materials and methods of using the packaging materials for preserving the integrity of biological and chemical compounds.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2012Publication date: October 23, 2014Inventors: Julie M. Goddard, Eric A. Decker
-
Patent number: 8865788Abstract: A medical prosthesis for use within the body which is formed of radiation treated ultra high molecular weight polyethylene having substantially no detectable free radicals, is described. Preferred prostheses exhibit reduced production of particles from the prosthesis during wear of the prosthesis, and are substantially oxidation resistant. Methods of manufacture of such devices and material used therein are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2001Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignees: The General Hospital Corporation, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Edward W. Merrill, William H. Harris, Murali Jasty, Charles R. Bragdon, Daniel O. O'Connor, Premnath Venugopalan
-
Patent number: 8815970Abstract: A method of preparing polyurethane prepolymer does not require using a toxic isocyanate monomer (manufactured by harmful phosgene) as a raw material. Epoxy resin and carbon dioxide are used as major raw materials to form cyclic carbonates to be reacted with a functional group oligomer, and then amino groups in a hydrophilic (ether group) or hydrophobic (siloxane group) diamine polymer are used for performing a ring-opening polymerization, and the microwave irradiation is used in the ring-opening polymerization to efficiently synthesize the amino-terminated PU prepolymer, and then an acrylic group at an end is added to manufacture an UV cross-linking PU (UV-PU) oligomer which can be coated onto a fabric surface, and the fabric is dried by UV radiation for a surface treatment to form a washing-resisted long lasting hydrophilic or hydrophobic PU fabric.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2011Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Tamkang University (A University of Taiwan)Inventors: Jing-Zhong Hwang, Guei-Jia Chang, Jhong-Jheng Lin, Cheng-Wei Tsai, Shih-Chieh Wang, Po-Cheng Chen, Kan-Nan Chen, Kan-Nan Chen
-
Publication number: 20140235745Abstract: The present invention presents methods for making oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and medical implants made therefrom. Preferably, the implants are components of prosthetic joints, e.g., a bearing component of an artificial hip or knee joint. The resulting oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and implants are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2014Publication date: August 21, 2014Inventors: Harry A. McKellop, Fu-Wen Shen
-
Patent number: 8796347Abstract: The present invention presents methods for making oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and medical implants made therefrom. Preferably, the implants are components of prosthetic joints, e.g., a bearing component of an artificial hip or knee joint. The resulting oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and implants are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2001Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: Orthopaedic HospitalInventors: Harry A. McKellop, Fu-Wen Shen
-
Publication number: 20140194548Abstract: A method of producing an improved polyethylene, especially an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene utilizes a sequential irradiation and annealing process to form a highly cross-linked polyethylene material. The use of sequential irradiation followed by sequential annealing after each irradiation allows each dose of irradiation in the series of doses to be relatively low while achieving a total dose which is sufficiently high to cross-link the material. The process may either be applied to a preformed material such as a rod or bar or sheet made from polyethylene resin or may be applied to a finished polyethylene part.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2014Publication date: July 10, 2014Applicant: HOWMEDICA OSTEONICS CORP.Inventors: Aiguo Wang, John H. Dumbleton, Aaron Essner, Shi-Shen Yau
-
Patent number: 8748507Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide an active energy ray curable resin composition exhibiting good adhesion to a polyolefin-based resin base material. More specifically, there is provided an active energy ray curable resin composition comprising: a block copolymer (C) that includes a polymer block (A) composed mainly of an olefin-based monomer unit and a polymer block (B) composed of a vinyl-based monomer unit having a carboxyl group, a carboxylic anhydride group, or a sulfonic acid group and/or a second vinyl-based monomer unit copolymerizable with the aforementioned vinyl-based monomer unit, the block copolymer (C) having a weight-average molecular weight from 5,000 to 100,000; and an active energy ray curable compound (D).Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2010Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Nippon Paper Chemicals Co., Ltd.Inventors: Minoru Yada, Yuuki Kokufu, Yuu Takata, Hideo Hosaka, Kenichi Fujino
-
Publication number: 20140097559Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for making cross-linked oxidation-resistant polymeric materials and preventing or minimizing in vivo elution of antioxidant from the antioxidant-containing polymeric materials. The invention also provides methods of doping polymeric materials with a spatial control of cross-linking and antioxidant distribution, for example, vitamin E (?-Tocopherol), and methods for extraction/elution of antioxidants, for example, vitamin E (?-tocopherol), from surface regions of antioxidant-containing polymeric materials, and materials used therewith also are provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2013Publication date: April 10, 2014Applicants: Cambridge Polymer Group, Inc., The General Hospital CorporationInventors: Orhun K. MURATOGLU, Edward T. Kopesky, Ebru Oral
-
Patent number: 8680173Abstract: A method of producing an improved polyethylene, especially an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene utilizes a sequential irradiation and annealing process to form a highly cross-linked polyethylene material. The use of sequential irradiation followed by sequential annealing after each irradiation allows each dose of irradiation in the series of doses to be relatively low while achieving a total dose which is sufficiently high to cross-link the material. The process may either be applied to a preformed material such as a rod or bar or sheet made from polyethylene resin or may be applied to a finished polyethylene part.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2012Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.Inventors: Aiguo Wang, John H. Dumbleton, Aaron Essner, Shi-Shen Yau
-
Patent number: 8673202Abstract: The present invention generally provides implantable articles and methods of forming implantable articles from a crosslinked ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (“UHMWPE”) blend stabilized with Vitamin E. The crosslinked UHMWPE blend may be prepared by combining the UHMWPE material and vitamin E prior to irradiating the UHMWPE blend with electron beam radiation at a sufficient radiation dose rate to induce crosslinking. The crosslinked UHMWPE blend may be incorporated into a variety of implants, and in particular, into endoprosthetic joint replacements.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2010Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Zimmer, GmbHInventors: Niels A. Abt, Werner Schneider-Storrer
-
Patent number: 8658710Abstract: The present invention presents methods for making oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and medical implants made therefrom. Preferably, the implants are components of prosthetic joints, e.g., a bearing component of an artificial hip or knee joint. The resulting oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and implants are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2007Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Orthopaedic HospitalInventors: Harry A. McKellop, Fu-Wen Shen
-
Publication number: 20140005293Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to polymer compositions having one or more antioxidants providing high crosslink density and improved oxidation resistance to the polymer composition and methods for making same. Such polymer compositions can be advantageously used to make orthopedic implants. The disclosure also provides methods for selecting antioxidants providing desirable properties to the polymer composition. In one embodiment, a measure of OIT can be used to select the antioxidant and antioxidant blend. In another embodiment, measurements of OIT and OI-rate can be used to select the one or more antioxidants. In an other embodiment, the product of OIT and crosslink density can be calculated to predict wear resistance and oxidation resistance of a polymer composition including one or more antioxidants.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2011Publication date: January 2, 2014Applicant: Zimmer, Inc.Inventors: Brian H. Thomas, Dean M. Acker, Ray Gsell, Norman Stark
-
Patent number: 8569395Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for making cross-linked oxidation-resistant polymeric materials and preventing or minimizing in vivo elution of antioxidant from the antioxidant-containing polymeric materials. The invention also provides methods of doping polymeric materials with a spatial control of cross-linking and antioxidant distribution, for example, vitamin E (?-Tocopherol), and methods for extraction/elution of antioxidants, for example, vitamin E (?-tocopherol), from surface regions of antioxidant-containing polymeric materials, and materials used therewith also are provided.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2012Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignees: The General Hospital Corporation, Cambridge Polymer Group, Inc.Inventors: Orhun K. Muratoglu, Edward T. Kopesky, Ebru Oral
-
Patent number: 8563623Abstract: A medical prosthesis for use within the body which is formed of radiation treated ultra high molecular weight polyethylene having substantially no detectable free radicals, is described. Preferred prostheses exhibit reduced production of particles from the prosthesis during wear of the prosthesis, and are substantially oxidation resistant. Methods of manufacture of such devices and material used therein are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2004Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignees: The General Hospital Corporation, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Edward W. Merrill, William H. Harris, Murali Jasty, Orhun Muratoglu, Charles R. Bragdon, Daniel O. O'Connor, Premnath Venugopalan
-
Patent number: 8552084Abstract: A process for preparing a pressure sensitive adhesive using a modified planetary roller extruder is described. The process in accordance with one aspect of the invention is a continuous process that includes introducing primary raw materials comprising a non-thermoplastic elastomer into a planetary roller extruder, introducing a heat-activatable crosslinker into the planetary roller extruder for mixing with the primary raw materials, and compounding the primary raw materials and the heat activatable crosslinker to form an adhesive composition while maintaining the temperature of the adhesive composition between about 25° C. and about 100° C. The non-thermoplastic elastomer is masticated during compounding and at least some of the heat-activatable crosslinker remains generally unactivated and is available for later activation.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2011Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Intertape Polymer Corp.Inventors: John Kinch Tynan, Jr., Richard Walter St. Coeur, David Michael Kovach, Thomas Lombardo
-
Patent number: 8546460Abstract: A prosthetic device may comprise an insert having a first surface configured to contact a first prosthetic component and a bearing surface configured to articulate against a second prosthetic component. The insert comprises an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and vitamin E. The vitamin E may have a concentration in the range of 0.02 to 0.12 wt % first mixed with the ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and then molded with the ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene at a temperature greater than the melting point of the ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. The ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and vitamin E may be gamma irradiated with a dosage of radiation between 5 and 20 Mrad. The insert may be machined prior to gamma irradiating the insert in air such that the gamma irradiation, at suitably high dosages, may also sterilize the insert.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2008Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.Inventors: Lorenz Brunner, Yvo Dirix, Hans Schmotzer, Shilesh C. Jani
-
Publication number: 20130197120Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for making highly crystalline polymeric material, for example, highly crystalline cross-linked and not cross-linked ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The invention also provides methods of making additive-doped highly crystalline polymeric material using high pressure and high temperature crystallization processes, medical implants made thereof, and materials used therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2013Publication date: August 1, 2013Applicant: The General Hospital CorporationInventor: The General Hospital Corporation
-
Patent number: 8470903Abstract: The present invention generally provides implantable articles and methods of forming implantable articles from a crosslinked ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (“UHMWPE”) blend stabilized with Vitamin E. The crosslinked UHMWPE blend may be prepared by combining the UHMWPE material and vitamin E prior to irradiating the UHMWPE blend with electron beam radiation at a sufficient radiation dose rate to induce crosslinking. The crosslinked UHMWPE blend may be incorporated into a variety of implants, and in particular, into endoprosthetic joint replacements.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2010Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Zimmer GmbHInventors: Niels A. Abt, Werner Schneider-Storrer
-
Patent number: 8461228Abstract: The invention provides an ink composition including a polymerizable compound represented by following Formula (1), a polymerization initiator and water: XA)n??Formula (1) wherein, in Formula (1), X represents a divalent or trivalent nitrogen-containing linking group represented by any one of following Formulae (X1) to (X3), A represents a polymerizable functional group having an amide group, and n represents 2 or 3: wherein, in Formulae (X1) to (X3), Z represents an alkylene group having 2 or 3 carbon atoms, or a divalent linking group including an alkylene group having 2 or 3 carbon atoms and an oxygen atom; and R1 represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2011Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventor: Koji Yasuda
-
Patent number: 8461225Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for making oxidation resistant homogenized polymeric materials and medical implants that comprise polymeric materials, for example, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The invention also provides methods of making antioxidant-doped medical implants, for example, doping of medical devices containing cross-linked UHMWPE with vitamin E by diffusion and annealing the antioxidant doped UHMWPE in a super critical fluid, and materials used therein.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2006Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: The General Hospital CorporationInventors: Orhun K. Muratoglu, Ebru Oral
-
Patent number: 8399535Abstract: Certain embodiments described herein are directed to polymer compositions including a protected antioxidant. In some examples, the compositions can also include a deprotected antioxidant, an unprotected antioxidant or both. Methods of producing compositions including a protected antioxidant and articles including a protected antioxidant are also described.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2010Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.Inventor: Dirk Pletcher
-
Patent number: 8398913Abstract: Solid-state deformation processing of crosslinked high molecular weight polymers such as UHMWPE, for example by extrusion below the melt transition, produces materials with a combination of high tensile strength and high oxidative stability. The materials are especially suitable for use as bearing components in artificial hip and other implants. Treated bulk materials are anisotropic, with enhanced strength oriented along the axial direction. The material is oxidatively stable even after four weeks of accelerated aging in a pressure vessel containing five atmospheres of oxygen (ASTM F2003). Because of its oxidative stability, the deformation processed material is a suitable candidate for air-permeable packaging and gas sterilization, which has thus far been reserved for remelted crosslinked UHMWPE.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2011Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Biomet Manufacturing Corp.Inventors: David W. Schroeder, Jordan H. Freedman, James E. Gunter, Brian D. Salyer, H. Gene Hawkins
-
Patent number: 8399536Abstract: The present subject matter relates generally to polymer compositions, and more particularly to irradiated polymer compositions comprising at least one non-phenolic stabilizer. The present polymer compositions comprise an unexpected balance of properties after being subjected to irradiation treatments, including an unexpected combination of a lower melt flow rate ratio (MFRr) and high melt tension after being irradiated, while minimizing negative yellowing effects.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2008Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Basell Poliolefine Italia, s.r.l.Inventors: Jeffrey D. Abata, Ronald F. Becker, Vu A. Dang, Anthony J. De Nicola, Jr., Theodore Dziemianowicz
-
Publication number: 20130064711Abstract: A method for manufacturing of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) for implants, where the implants have been machined out of UHMWPE blocks or extruded rods, has anthocyanin dispersely imbedded in the polyethylene. The implant is then exposed to ? ray or electron beam irradiation in an amount of at least 2.5 Mrad followed by a heat treatment to prevent the implant from becoming brittle in the long term as well as to improve strength and wear. The method includes mixing a powder or granulate resin of UHMWPE with an aqueous liquid that contains anthocyanin in a predetermined amount. The water is then evaporated to deposit the anthocyanin in a predetermined concentration on the polyethylene particles. The doped UHMWPE particles are compressed into blocks at temperatures in a range of approximately 135° C.-250° C. and pressures in a range of approximately 2-70 MPa. Medical implants are made from the blocks.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2012Publication date: March 14, 2013Applicant: HOWMEDICA OSTEONICS CORP.Inventor: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.
-
Publication number: 20130046042Abstract: A method of producing an improved polyethylene, especially an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene utilizes a sequential irradiation and annealing process to form a highly cross-linked polyethylene material. The use of sequential irradiation followed by sequential annealing after each irradiation allows each dose of irradiation in the series of doses to be relatively low while achieving a total dose which is sufficiently high to cross-link the material. The process may either be applied to a preformed material such as a rod or bar or sheet made from polyethylene resin or may be applied to a finished polyethylene part.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2012Publication date: February 21, 2013Applicant: HOWMEDICA OSTEONICS CORP.Inventor: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.
-
Patent number: 8378032Abstract: Elastoplastic polyolefin composition comprising, in percent by weight: A) 10-50% of a copolymer of propylene with one or more comonomer(s) selected from ethylene and CH2?CHR alpha-olefins where R is a 2-8 carbon alkyl, which copolymer contains from 1 to 8% of comonomer(s); B) 50-90% of a copolymer of ethylene and (i) propylene or (ii) CH2?CHR alpha-olefins, where R is a 2-8 carbon alkyl radical, or (iii) a combination thereof, optionally with minor amounts of a diene, containing from 57 to 80% of ethylene; wherein the weight ratio B/XS of the content B of copolymer component (B) to the fraction XS soluble in xylene at room temperature, both referred to the total weight of (A)+(B), is of 1.5 or less, and the intrinsic viscosity [?] of the said XS fraction is of 3 dl/g or more.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2012Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Basell Poliolefine Italia s.r.l.Inventors: Giampaolo Pellegatti, Paolo Goberti, Michael Balow, Robert Butala
-
Patent number: 8372894Abstract: A method for producing a graft polymer comprises the steps of: a) irradiating a base polymer with an electron beam or a source of ?-radiation, b) contacting a grafting solution with the base polymer, wherein the grafting solution contains at least one oxygen scavenger and at least one graft monomer selected from the group consisting of styrene and styrene derivatives, and c) graft polymerizing the mixture of the base polymer and the grafting solution obtained in step b).Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2009Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Belenos Clean Power Holding AGInventor: Dirk Henkensmeier
-
Patent number: 8362151Abstract: The present invention provides novel hybrid polymer useful for alignment layers for inducing alignment of a liquid crystal medium. Hybrid polymers of this invention are prepared from a) at least one component selected from the group consisting of oligomer(s) and polymer(s) within the class of polyimides, poly(amic acids) and esters thereof wherein the at least one component comprises at least one initiator generating moiety, and b) at least one component selected from the group consisting of addition monomer(s) and addition polymer(s), wherein the two components are covalently bonded to form a copolymer. The invention further describes liquid crystal elements such as all liquid crystal display products or modes, liquid crystal devices and liquid crystal optical films comprising the novel hybrid polymer alignment layers.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2009Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Elsicon, Inc.Inventors: Chunhong Li, Wayne Gibbons
-
Patent number: 8354459Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a method for producing a block copolymer solid in which microphase-separated structures are formed with good productivity. The present invention provides a method for producing a block copolymer solid in which a microphase-separated structure is formed, or an alloy, blend or composite solid containing a block copolymer in which a microphase-separated structure is formed, which comprises the following steps (1) to (3): (1) immersing a block copolymer solid or an alloy, blend or composite solid containing a block copolymer in a solvent in which each component is insoluble; (2) putting the solid obtained in (1) above in a pressure-resistant container; and (3) irradiating the solid or the solvent in (2) above with microwave.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2010Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: Japan Science and Technology AgencyInventors: Hiroshi Yabu, Takeshi Higuchi
-
Patent number: 8344040Abstract: A process produces a block of polyolefin material with uniform crosslinking, which may be uniform between and within polymer chains in the polyolefin material. Steps include: providing an oven; placing the block into the oven; preheating the block to a uniform temperature above the melting point; further heating the block to a temperature at least 30 degrees Centigrade above the melting point; cooling the block to room temperature under an inert gas; and removing oxidized material from surface of the block. Optional steps include: subjecting the block to radiation before placing the block into the oven; removing the gases from the oven on a continuous or stepwise basis; controlling the purge gas flow out of the oven; and determining a heating time period for the block by subjecting control blocks to the same process and analyzing them after various heating times.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2012Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Inventor: Dehchuan Sun
-
Patent number: 8329079Abstract: Methods and apparatus for continuous production of a partially polymerized composition according to the invention comprise those that facilitate continuously providing polymerizable composition comprising one or more monomers to an angled plane at an elevated position thereon; irradiating the polymerizable composition to form the partially polymerized composition; and continuously removing the partially polymerized composition from the angled plane at a lower position thereon, wherein the angle of the angled plane facilitates free flow of polymerizing composition from the elevated position to the lower position.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2009Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: entrochem, inc.Inventors: James E. McGuire, Jr., Andrew C. Strange, Daniel E. Lamone
-
Patent number: 8324291Abstract: A method of producing an improved polyethylene, especially an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene utilizes a sequential irradiation and annealing process to form a highly cross-linked polyethylene material. The use of sequential irradiation followed by sequential annealing after each irradiation allows each dose of irradiation in the series of doses to be relatively low while achieving a total dose which is sufficiently high to cross-link the material. The process may either be applied to a preformed material such as a rod or bar or sheet made from polyethylene resin or may be applied to a finished polyethylene part.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2011Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.Inventors: Aiguo Wang, John H. Dumbleton, Aaron Essner, Shi-Shen Yau
-
Publication number: 20120292816Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for making cross-linked oxidation-resistant polymeric materials and preventing or minimizing in vivo elution of antioxidant from the antioxidant-containing polymeric materials. The invention also provides methods of doping polymeric materials with a spatial control of cross-linking and antioxidant distribution, for example, vitamin E (?-Tocopherol), and methods for extraction/elution of antioxidants, for example, vitamin E (?-tocopherol), from surface regions of antioxidant-containing polymeric materials, and materials used therewith also are provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2012Publication date: November 22, 2012Applicants: Cambridge Polymer Group, Inc., The General Hospital CorporationInventors: Orhun K. Muratoglu, Edward T. Kopesky, Ebru Oral
-
Patent number: RE44762Abstract: An ultra high molecular weight polyethylene molded article for artificial joints has molecular orientation or crystal orientation in the molded article, and is low in friction and is superior in abrasion resistance, and therefore is available as components for artificial joints. Further, the ultra high molecular weight polyethylene molded article for artificial joints can be used as a component for artificial hip joints (artificial acetabular cup), a component for artificial knee joints (artificial tibial insert) and the socket for artificial elbow joints, and in addition to the medical use, it can be applied as materials for various industries by utilizing the characteristics such as low friction and superior abrasion resistance.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2012Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: BMG IncorporatedInventors: Suong-Hyu Hyon, Hiroki Takahashi