Thesis
Swelling and mechanical characterization of a porous swelling co-polymer for orthopedic applications
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Sep 2021
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00000592
Abstract
Bone implants are a common part of orthopedic procedures used to correct a variety of conditions. The material used in these implants dictates the device's strength and efficacy. Researchers have spent decades looking for materials ideally suited to these applications that exhibit the necessary mechanical characteristics while enabling bone regrowth and healing. Self-anchoring materials have been identified as an excellent candidate for bone implants. These materials allow for gradual fixation, stimulation of bone growth, and desirable mechanical properties. The material described in this study is a swelling polymer that can be formulated into a porous matrix. This material is capable of controlled swelling when exposed to an aqueous media, like the fluids present in the human body. The porous matrix allows for the surrounding bone to integrate into the device, allowing for strong fixation and facilitation of the body's natural healing process. While it was anticipated that the porous material would not exhibit sufficient mechanical strength, the material was used to create a hybrid system of solid and porous components to maintain strength as well as osteointegration. The material was evaluated by quantifying the free swelling characteristics of the solid material, porous material, and hybrid system. This was done for two diameters for each type. Additionally, the mechanical properties for each material type were determined using standard compression testing. It was concluded that the solid samples exhibited similar properties to samples characterized in previous studies. As expected, the porous material did not exhibit sufficient strength, but when the two types were combined into the hybrid system, sufficient strength was observed. This indicates that the hybrid system would be a good candidate for additional evaluation as a self-fixating bone implant.
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Details
- Title
- Swelling and mechanical characterization of a porous swelling co-polymer for orthopedic applications
- Creators
- Victoria McDonald
- Contributors
- Sorin Siegler (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- vii, 50 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- College of Engineering (1970-2026); Mechanical Engineering (and Mechanics) (1970-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991015684244004721