Additive Manufacturing of Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and its Application in Medical Implants

PEEK is a polyaromatic semi-crystalline thermoplastic polymer with good mechanical characteristics for biomedical applications. The medical field has been applying its mechanical properties to make bone implants and modeling for surgical planning using 3D printing, more formally called Additive Manufacturing (AM). This paper provides a concise discussion about PEEK and its development for orthopedic applications. Some of the designs used to fix specific issues are shown in this review paper including the mechanical properties development for PEEK to be applicable in the medical field. Challenges and prospects when 3D printing using this material on improving PEEK’s biocompatibility and ease of printing are also discussed.