ABSTRACT
The properties of plastics or rubbers are directly relatable to the structural considerations arising from their component macromolecules and can be studied as such, but this gives only a partial understanding. Plastics materials are not studied in terms of control for most of their uses as implants, but when used as membranes or in other systems in contact with blood, the control effect of the surface on the biological milieu is significant. If a plastics material used for implant purposes deforms or breaks, it will have failed its intended purpose. The behavior of reinforced plastics will depend on the nature of the reinforcement material, fibrous or powder. The control of polymer properties during manufacture is affected at the time of polymerization and also in the subsequent compounding and fabrication processes during which additives are incorporated and the final form of the plastics article is made.
