GUR1020 and GUR1050 polyethylenes, intended for the production of endoprosthesis cups, were subjected to forming by uniaxial compression (up to the value of plastic deformation ef = 0.2), and radiation cross-linking (by means of an electron beam). A slight orientation of the lamellar phase in the structure as well as strengthening – through the induced state of stresses – of morphological effects of radiation modification, and no texturing effect of the crystalline phase had been assumed for the applied sequence of polymer forming interactions (while maintaining a small deformation value ef). The aim of the applied method was a significant reduction in tribological wear of polymers, both the starting materials and ones modified exclusively by electron irradiation. An increase in hardness and elasticity modulus along with a radiation dose was found for both materials and the compared methods of forming. It was demonstrated that changes occur with varying intensity depending on the type of polymers, which are characterised by an almost two-fold difference between their molecular weight. The results of tribological tests showed an 11-fold increase of wear resistance (linear; tester T-01), compared to the unmodified material. Only a 2.5 to3 fold reduction in wear was found compared to the material subjected to electron irradiation
