ASTM F2102-13

1.1 This guide covers a method for the measurement of the relative extent of oxidation present in HDPE homopolymers and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) intended for use in medical implants. The material is analyzed by infrared spectroscopy. The intensity (area) of the carbonyl absorptions (>C=O) centered near 1720 cm^-1 is related to the amount of chemically bound oxygen present in the material. Other forms of chemically bound oxygen (C-O-C, C-O-O-C, C-O-H, and so forth) are not captured by this guide.

1.2 Although this guide may give the investigator a means to compare the relative extent of carbonyl oxidation present in various UHMWPE samples, it is recognized that other forms of chemically bound oxygen may be important contributors to these materials' characteristics.

1.3