Biomaterials

This module describes the fundamental characteristics of biomaterials commonly used for medical applications. This course addresses the fundamental properties and applications of biomaterials (synthetic and natural) that are used in contact with biological systems. The understanding of biomaterials encompasses fundamental knowledge of medicine, biology, chemistry and material science. The module provides a concise introduction to the microstructures and processing of materials (metals, ceramics, polymers and composites) and shows how these are related to the properties required in engineering design, as well as instrumented analytical methods used to quantify such relationships. In addition students will gain an appreciation for soft tissue replacement materials in current use as well as an understanding of materials selection and design requirements for hard and soft tissue replacement applications. The advantages and limitations on the application of a biomaterial type for a particular situation are examined and explored.

1. Describe biocompatibility, sterilisation, and the issues associated with the immune and tissue responses of biomaterials.

2. Identify the bonds within biomedical materials

3. Categorise the various types of biomaterials

4. Assess drug delivery systems

5. Evaluate the characteristics of biomaterials based on various scanning technologies

6. Select the optimum biomaterial types for a particular medical application