[Chemical and physical properties of PMMA bone cements].

PMMA-based bone cements are used for anchoring artificial joints. The cements are offered as two-component systems. During mixing, a liquid paste is formed by free-radical polymerization, which completely hardens into a solid cement matrix as polymerization progresses with an increase in viscosity. Polymerization from MMA to PMMA is an exothermic process, energy is released in the form of heat. After fixation of the prosthesis and curing of the cement, the cement fills the space between the prosthesis and the bone. With the filler PMMA, a strong force-locking and interlocking mechanical bond is created. The essential properties of PMMA cements are dictated by the powder component. In vivo, the hard and brittle bone cements absorb body fluids and become more elastic and softer. The properties of various PMMA bone cements differ significantly, although the chemical acrylate base is identical.