Authors:
David N. Ku
and
Jin Wu Fan
Affiliation:
Georgia Institute of Technology, United States
Keyword(s):
Biomaterial, mechanics, elasticity, strength, wear, biocompatibility, medical devices.
Related
Ontology
Subjects/Areas/Topics:
Biomaterials
;
Biomedical Engineering
;
Biomedical Instruments and Devices
Abstract:
Typical biomaterials are stiff, difficult to manufacture, and not initially developed for medical implants. A new biomaterial is proposed that is similar to human soft tissue. The biomaterial provides mechanical properties similar to soft tissue in its mechanical and physical properties. Characterization is performed for modulus of elasticity, ultimate strength and wear resistance. The material further exhibits excellent biocompatibility with little toxicity and low inflammation. The material can be molded into a variety of anatomic shapes for use as a cartilage replacement, heart valve, and reconstructive implant for trauma victims. The biomaterial may be suitable for several biodevices of the future aimed at soft-tissue replacements.