peoblem 8 Biomaterials The Intersection of Biology and Mater

peoblem 8

Biomaterials: The Intersection of Biology and Materials Science An extrusion technique was employed to fabricate a square polymer sample 4 cm X 4 cm X 0.5 cm. The extrusion process has resulted in the vast\' majority of the polymer chains being aliened preferentially in one direction as shown. In which direction, then, should a tensile force be applied to the sample to result in the greatest resistance to the applied force? Why? Various biomaterials can be used for joint replacement applications, such as hip implants. Which of the three major types of biomaterials t & would you use for the femoral stem? Why? Would integration of the femoral stem with the surrounding tissue be an acceptable biological response? Why or why not?

Solution

Answer:

Problem 8:

(A) The materials which can be used for the femoral stem are:

Metals: Metals have strength and can be molded into desired complex shapes and thus can be used in the core of the stem.

Ceramics: These are suitable materials for use on the surface of stem and it facilitates integration with the bone. example: silicon nitride.

Polymers: These can be either artificial and natural. Natural polymers are biologically derived and can integrate with the surrounding tisuues, but are prone to contamination and limited in supply. Artificial polymers can be prepared and sterilized before use but they cannot integrate to the surrounding tissues.

(B) Integration of the femoral stem with the surrounding tissue is desirable as it would fix the implant the stem with the surrounding tissue in a better way.

Integration of the femoral tissue in the joint space may pose problems such as impairment of movement.