Enhancing tribological performance of high‐density polyethylene polymer with diamond‐like carbon coating and mollusk shells filler

Abstract This study explores the tribological properties of mollusk‐shell‐high‐density polyethylene (MS‐HDPE) biocomposites and diamond‐like carbon (DLC)‐coated metal beads as potential substitutes for hip joint prostheses. HDPE biocomposites with 0, 5, and 10 wt% of MS were developed using hot compression molding. Coatings included pure DLC, DLC‐Si, and DLC W:H. Wear tests on a ball‐on‐disk tribometer examined friction and wear rates against coated and uncoated balls, along with wear morphology. MS‐HDPE demonstrated superior tribological performance against DLC, achieving a 67% reduction in specific wear rate compared to pure HDPE. The study suggests that 5 wt% MS‐HDPE coupled with a DLC‐coated counterpart coating could be a promising combination for orthopedic applications, presenting a potential solution to metal corrosion and wear debris issues in orthopedic implants. Highlights Tested coatings: DLC, DLC‐Si, and DLC W:H. Biocomposite wear versus coated balls. DLC coating improves wear with shell fillers. Mollusk shell strengthens biocomposites. Reduced wear rate by 63% and friction by 77%.