ISIS Neutron and Muon Source Data Journal

Neutron Tomography for Visualising PMMA Bone Cement and Cement-Implant Interfaces: A Proof-of-Concept Study

Abstract: Cemented total hip replacements rely on the structural integrity of the polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) mantle to ensure stable fixation between metallic implants and bone. However, internal defects and interfacial degradation within the cement mantle remain poorly understood due to severe artefacts in conventional X-ray and micro-CT imaging near metal components. This proof-of-concept study explores the use of neutron tomography on IMAT at ISIS Neutron and Muon Source to visualise PMMA bone cement and cement implant interfaces. Owing to its high sensitivity to hydrogen and weak interaction with metals, neutron imaging enables detailed observation of polymeric and hydrated regions with minimal artefact. Two experimental sets are proposed: (i) visualisation of microstructure and hydration in cylindrical PMMA specimens under fresh and saline-conditioned states, and (ii) assessment of interfacial changes in stem cement bone constructs before and after cyclic mechanical loading. Imaging results will be correlated with mechanical and chemical characterisation to link internal contrast changes with degradation or water uptake. The study aims to establish neutron tomography as a viable technique for imaging cemented orthopaedic constructs, providing key insights into cement integrity and interfacial failure mechanisms. Findings will guide future in situ studies on fatigue-induced damage and support improved design and longevity of cemented joint replacements.

Principal Investigator: Dr Mohamad Taufiqurrakhman
Local Contact: Dr Ranggi Ramadhan
Experimenter: Mr Nanda Riskiyanto
Experimenter: Mr Kenzie Nathanael
Experimenter: Mr Giovanni Dhimas Raditya Putra

DOI: 10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2610633

ISIS Experiment Number: RB2610633

Publisher: STFC ISIS Neutron and Muon Source

Data format: RAW/Nexus
Select the data format above to find out more about it.

Data Citation

The recommended format for citing this dataset in a research publication is as:
[author], [date], [title], [publisher], [doi]

For Example:
Dr Mohamad Taufiqurrakhman et al; (2026): Neutron Tomography for Visualising PMMA Bone Cement and Cement-Implant Interfaces: A Proof-of-Concept Study, STFC ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, https://doi.org/10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2610633

Data is released under the CC-BY-4.0 license.