Influence of Surface Texturing on the Dry Tribological Properties of Polymers in Medical Devices

There is a constant need to improve patient comfort and product performance associated with the use of medical devices. Efforts to optimise the tribological characteristics of medical devices usually involve modifying existing devices without compromising their main design features and functionality. This article constitutes a state-of-the-art review of the influence of dry friction on polymeric components used in medical devices, including those having microscale surface features. Surface tribology and contact interactions are discussed, along with alternative forms of surface texturing. Evident gaps in the literature, and areas warranting future research are highlighted; these include friction involving polymer Vs polymer surfaces, information regarding which topologies and feature spacings provide the best performing textured surfaces, and design guidelines that would assist manufacturers to minimise or maximise friction under non-lubricated conditions.

Automated summary

The article provides a state-of-the-art review of the impact of dry friction on polymeric components in medical devices, including those with microscale surface features. Surface tribology, contact interactions, and alternative forms of surface texturing are discussed. The article also highlights gaps in the literature and areas for future research, such as friction between polymer surfaces, optimal topologies and feature spacings for textured surfaces, and design guidelines for minimizing or maximizing friction under non-lubricated conditions.