The present invention discloses methods for enhancing the wear-resistance
of polymers, the resulting polymers, and in vivo implants made from such
polymers. One aspect of this invention presents a method whereby a
polymer is irradiated, preferably with gamma radiation, then thermally
treated, such as by remelting of annealing. The resulting polymeric
composition preferably has its most oxidized surface layer removed.
Another aspect of the invention presents a general method for optimizing
the wear resistance and desirable physical and/or chemical properties of
a polymer by crosslinking and thermally treating it. The resulting
polymeric compositions is wear-resistant and may be fabricated into an in
vivo implant.
