Importance of adaptive multimode lubrication mechanism in natural synovial joints

The superior tribological performance in natural synovial joints with low friction and minimal wear appears to be actualized by not single lubrication mode but the synergistic combination of various modes from the fluid film lubrication to boundary lubrication corresponding to the severity of rubbing conditions. We have conducted the biphasic finite element analysis and some experimental studies for articular cartilage to elucidate this ingenious lubrication mechanism from the viewpoint of the adaptive multimode lubrication mechanism. In this paper, the effectiveness of different lubrication modes such as biphasic, boundary, gel-film and hydration lubrication particularly at low speed conditions is discussed.