*** Science geek out time:
Polyethylene polymers are commonly employed as biomaterials and, depending on the specific structure, they can be employed as catheter tubes, facial implants, artificial tendons, or bearing components in total joint replacements. Polyethylene is made through an addition polymerization reaction that utilizes an ethylene monomer (–C2H4–) repeated along the chain. Process time, temperature, and pressure conditions enable a broad range in degree of branching, molecular weight, crystallinity, entanglements, and cross-linking to be obtained in polyethylene polymers. The molecular weight of polyethylene can vary from 30 000 to 6 000 000 g mol−1, density can range from 0.91 to 0.98 g cm−3, and crystallinity can span 30–90%. The melting temperature is typically in the range of 120–147 °C and the glass transition temperature is on the order of −80 °C. Additionally, the polymer can be cross-linked through either chemical or energetic means. This provides an enormous range of structural and mechanical properties within the category of polyethylene. For this reason, polyethylene is generally subcategorized as LDPE, medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), HDPE, or UHMWPE. Thus, it is imperative that the details of the processing, structure, and mechanical properties are well characterized when using polyethylene in medical implants.
*** End Sience lesson.
The effects on a body in small quantities is not harmful. In larger quantities, it can be detrimental.
The concerning part is the 75% dispersal agent. What is that? If it is any form of xylitol (sugar substitute that has antibacterial properties) it can be deadly to dogs even in small quantities.
