The global market for medical grade ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is expected to reach 1.36 billion in U.S. dollars by 2024, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The effectiveness of the material in medical implants is due to its superior properties such as high impact strength, low reactivity, and good flexibility. These qualities are expected to drive the demand over the forecast period.
UHMWPE is a material having long chains which enable it to efficiently transfer load. These qualities make it suitable for implants which have to endure repeated loading, sheer or other stresses. Yet, these materials are also extremely pliable and have good impact strength and less weight when compared to metals. All these properties have increased the demand for UHMWPE for medical applications.
Joint replacement surgeries use ultra high molecular weight polyethylene due to its effectiveness and versatility. There has been a surge in demand for joint replacement surgeries across the globe. Rising geriatric population, changing lifestyles and a lack of fitness are the contributing factors for this trend.
The global medical grade UHMWPE market demand was 60.9 kilo tons in 2015 and is expected to reach 204.8 kilo tons by 2024. North America dominated the global industry and accounted for over 35% of total demand in 2015.
