Biomaterials and Its Characterization

Abstract

As of this publication, the development of biomaterials as a science is nearly 50 years old. The study of this subject is known as biomaterials science and involves engineering as well as development of products. It has shown a steady and strong growth over the years, with business groups investing large amounts of money into the development of new products. Biomaterials science is highly interdisciplinary in nature, involving medical sciences, biosciences, chemistry, tissue engineering, and materials science principles (Fig. 4.1).

Problems

• 1. Hydroxyapatite (HA) and tricalcium phosphate (TCP) are generated simultaneously during a thermal conversion process. How will you identify the HA and TCP and their relative percentages?

• 2. We have produced HA from the bones and teeth of mammals, sea corals, and eggshells. Suggest how those can be achieved and what equipment and chemicals will be required based upon the chemistry of transformation.

• 3. HA is a ceramic usually produced by a high-temperature heating process. Hard tissues of animals, like tooth and bone, contain a huge amount of such a mineral. How is that possible in a natural process at a low temperature?

• 4. What is a stress-shielding phenomenon, and how does it affect the performance of metallic prostheses? Suggest suitable means for solving such problems.

• 5. What is bioactive glass? State its composition and how those components can be produced. Where can these materials be used gainfully in medical problems?

• 6. How can PEEK material be used for the development of hip joints?