The static strength and long-term performance of composite hip prostheses under complex
mechanical and environmental loading conditions are studied through theoretical modelling and
experimental investigations. Two static strength models, namely, a cantilever beam model and an
elastic foundation model, were developed using a strength of materials approach, and were transformed
into an operating computer code which can be used for stress analysis and engineering design
of composite prostheses. The predictions of the two models are shown to be in very good
agreement with experimental data. A dynamic, mechanistic cumulative damage model that is capable
of predicting the residual strength and life of a composite prosthesis under cyclic loading was
also developed, based on a 'Critical Element Model' and the static strength models, and was
transformed into an operating computer code. The predictions by the dynamic model are, in general,
within engineering accuracy when compared to the experimental data. A test fixture was designed
to perform fatigue tests on the composite prostheses. A total of nine prostheses were fatigue
tested. Several nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques were used to assess fatigue damage
development in the specimens tested. Among all the NDE techniques used, x-ray radiography and
a surface replication technique were shown to be most effective qualitatively. Destructive tests were
also performed on selected specimens, the results are complimentary to the information obtained
from the NOE tests.
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