2. Ceramics for orthopedics

2.1 Manufacturing processes

The technical ceramics used in orthopedics are all powder-based. The powders, in atomized form, are pressed (isostatic or uniaxial pressing, depending on the manufacturer) to obtain green bodies. By uniaxial pressing, we obtain logs that are machined in green (or degreased) then sintered, and whose dimensions are taken over after sintering and before final polishing. This process is therefore suitable for all types of geometry. Isostatic pressing, on the other hand, produces ball preforms which are sintered, then lapped to ensure their sphericity, and into which the Morse taper is machined for attachment to the stem. This process is therefore reserved for spherical implants, such as hip replacement heads.

The dimensional specifications...