A standardized assessment of moldability parameters of thermoplastic materials used in orthotic manufacturing

OBJECTIVE: To establish parameters for standardized assessment of the moldability of thermoplastic materials used in orthotic manufacturing and to develop tests for quantification of moldability parameters by simulating the demands of clinical practice, in order to enable accurate and controlled analysis of material properties. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Two commercially available materials were submitted to tests for standardized measurement of moldability. Results were correlated with manufacturer information. Moldability assessment was based on two parameters (conformation and fit), expressed as percentages. RESULTS: Tests, standardized molding procedures and measurements were described. Quantitative data (conformation and fit expressed in percentages) were derived from a pilot study comparing Aquaplast-T™ and Ezeform™. Findings of that study revealed that Aquaplast-T™ is more moldable than Ezeform™ and support technical information provided by the manufacturer. CONCLUSIONS: The assessment method described enabled objective and repeatable measurement of the moldability of materials used in orthotic manufacturing and represent a significant advancement in comparative analysis of materials, with potential positive impacts on therapeutic procedures and clinical decision-making. Tests developed in this study can be used to quantify data provided by manufacturers in order to allow their use by researchers and professionals in rehabilitation.