Abstract
This paper reports on a comparative investigation into the mechanical and handling properties of a selection of currently marketed bandage-form casting materials. The aim of the investigation was to develop a quantitative evaluation of available materials for use in the particular application of femoral fracture bracing. A field survey of Northern Ireland hospitals was conducted which showed that certain handling properties were important to those actually using the materials. A series of engineering and handling tests were developed on the basis of the replies received and executed on each of the materials. It was found that all the modern synthetic casting materials performed better than plaster of Paris. The findings of the investigation and the results of the field survey will be of interest to anyone involved in the application of the new materials and also to those manufacturing them.
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