One of the most challenging applications for an epoxy compound is bonding a fully implantable medical device. Not only must the epoxy withstand sterilization procedures, but it must also exhibit biocompatibility for an extended period of time. Both capabilities are essential for the device to maintain high performance over the long term—even when in direct contact with tissue and bodily fluids—and prevent the introduction of toxins that can cause injury, a physiological reaction or immunological rejection.
A prosthetic knee is a common implantable device that consists of three major parts: a tibial component, which is connected to the shinbone; a femoral component, which is connected to the thighbone; and a meniscal-bearing component (or spacer), which is located between the other two components and allows them to slide over each other.