title: Tensile strength and impact resistance properties of materials used in prosthetic check sockets, copolymer sockets, and definitive laminated sockets.
abstract: Prosthetic sockets serve as the interface between people with amputations and their prostheses. Although most materials used to make prosthetic sockets have been used for many years, knowledge of these materials' properties is limited, especially after they are subjected to fabrication processes. This study evaluated tensile and impact properties of the current state-of-the-art materials used to fabricate prosthetic check sockets, copolymer sockets, and definitive laminated sockets. Thermolyn Rigid and Orfitrans Stiff check socket materials produced significantly lower tensile strength and impact resistance than polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG). Copolymer socket materials exhibited greater resistance to impact forces than the check socket materials but lower tensile strengths than PETG. The heated molding processes, for the check socket and copolymer materials, reduced both tensile strength and elongation at break. Definitive laminated sockets were sorted according to fabrication techniques. Nyglass material had significantly higher elongation, indicating a more ductile material than carbon-based laminations. Carbon sockets with pigmented resin had higher tensile strength and modulus at break than nonpigmented carbon sockets. Elongation at yield and elongation at break were similar for both types of carbon-based laminations. The material properties determined in this study provide a foundation for understanding and improving the quality of prosthetic sockets using current fabrication materials and a basis for evaluating future technologies.
authors: The Ohio Willow Wood Company-Engineering, 15441 Scioto Darby Rd, PO Box 130, Mt. Sterling, OH 43143, USA. mariag@owwco.com
authors: Maria J
authors: MJ
authors: Gerschutz
authors: Michael L
authors: ML
authors: Haynes
authors: Derek M
authors: DM
authors: Nixon
authors: James M
authors: JM
authors: Colvin
mesh_terms: D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001186:Artificial Limbs; D035002:Lower Extremity; D008422:Materials Testing; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols; D011093:Polyethylene Terephthalates; D011108:Polymers; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D013718:Tensile Strength
chemical_list: D011093:Polyethylene Terephthalates; D011108:Polymers; C475920:polyethylene terephthalate glycol; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols