Macro and micro scale load effects on tribocorrosion mechanisms in biomedical CoCrMo alloys

Understanding wear mechanisms is crucial for enhancing the durability and effectiveness of joint implants. Despite advances in the field, a gap persists in connecting different length scales, tribocorrosion, and overall debris formation, underscoring the need for enhancements. This study investigates the degradation process of the low-carbon cobaltchromiummolybdenum alloy, examining its behaviour across macro and micro scales. The coefficient of friction (COF) was shown to be influenced by initial contact pressures, alongside a transition from predominantly mechanical to mainly corrosive wear when shear stresses in the contact fell below the shear strength of the bulk. By integrating insights from both scales, this study provides a comprehensive perspective on wear processes. It contributes to the development design strategies and further improved material performance.