Abstract: Objective: By testing the biomechanical properties of three different processes PEEK standard parts, to evaluate the advantages and clinical application prospects of 3D printing PEEK prosthesis. Methods: Standard parts for biomechanical testing were manufactured by three processes: isomer (injection molding), reduction (machining) and augmentation (3D printing). Uniaxial tensile test, uniaxial compression test, and three-point bending test were carried out to test the biomechanical properties of the standard parts. LSD test was used to compare the mean values among groups. Results: There was no significant difference in tensile strength between 3D printing specimens and mechanical processing and injection molding. The bending strength of 3D printing was slightly lower than that of mechanical processing, but not significant different from that of injection molding. Conclusion: The polyetheretherketone prosthesis prepared by 3D printing technology has better mechanical properties and can better meet the individualized clinical needs.

Key words: 3D printing, Injection molding, Machining, Mechanical properties testing, Artificial prosthesis