Analysis of the Material Properties of 3D Printed Bone Graft Substitutes

Bone graft substitutes are used when the defect in the bone is so large that the body cannot heal naturally. Tissue engineering involves the production of materials that when combined with cells are able to fill the volume of the defect. Over time, degradable materials are replaced by bone and the natural state is eventually restored. 3D printing processes are ideally suited for the production of personalized scaffolds with defined porosity. Synthetic polymers can be engineered to have similar mechanical properties to bone, which favors the formation of bone-forming cells. The disadvantage of these synthetic polymers is their poor wetting properties, which reduces the adherence of the cells. The aim of the project is to adapt the properties of the polymer scaffold produced to favor the cells required for bone healing by means of ceramic additives, varying the process control and post-treatment of the surface.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ian Beausoleil-Morrison

Student:

Partner:

Technische Universität Dresden

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

Carleton University

Program: