Document Type
Thesis
Date of Award
Spring 5-31-1995
Degree Name
Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering - (M.S.)
Department
Biomedical Engineering Committee
First Advisor
Clarence W. Mayott
Second Advisor
Harold Alexander
Third Advisor
Kwabena A. Narh
Abstract
The mechanical properties of a new class of bioabsorbable polymer-composite based on the amino acid tyrosine and calcium phosphate fibers were studied. The effect of the fiber aspect ratio on the elastic modulus of a discontinuous fiber composite was analyzed using the SMC composite micromechanics computer model. The mechanical stiffness of this polymer was found to be superior to that of poly-p-dioxanone, caprolactone and poly-o-ester.
The fiber surface was modified with methane plasma spray to improve the fiber-matrix coupling. The treated fiber composites had 16-40% higher tensile modulus than the untreated fiber composites. From the flexural test results it is suspected that the compression modulus is greater than tensile. The use of these innovative materials in fixation devices could eliminate a second surgery to retrieve the implant, eliminate the corrosion problems with metallic devices and provide load transfer to the healing bone, minimizing stress protection atrophy.
Recommended Citation
Perez, Barbaro Jesus, "Effect of fiber-matrix coupling on the mechanical properties of a totally bioabsorbable composite" (1995). Theses. 1198.
https://digitalcommons.njit.edu/theses/1198
