The Influence of Medical Sterilization Process on the Mechanical Properties of Selected Polymeric Biomaterials Obtained by Additive Manufacturing

The continuous development of medicine and the persistent and unrelenting demand to produce medical devices that improve patient function, health, and quality of life have long been the primary drivers of the modernization of engineering technologies. This study aimed to investigate the impact of steam sterilization on the selected mechanical properties of four polymeric biomaterials used in medical engineering. The scope of the study included the preparation of samples from MED610, PEEK, PET-G HT100, and RGD720 using Additive manufacturing technology, conducting steam sterilization processes at 121°C and 134°C, and performing mechanical tests such as bending tests and Rockwell hardness tests. The analysis sought to evaluate structural and strength changes in the materials after sterilization at different temperatures and under long-term loading.