Biomaterials module (ME51008)

Credits

20

Module code

ME51008

Biomaterials are substances that have been engineered to interact with biological systems for a medical purpose, e.g. restoring function and encouraging healing for people after trauma or disease.

This module will equip you with the knowledge and skills to apply engineering principles and design methods to create new techniques and instruments in medicine and surgery. This module covers the basics of biomaterials, their applications in tissue engineering, and their interaction and compatibility with biological systems during tissue regeneration.

Topics in this module are:

  1. Introduction to Biomaterials
  2. Properties of Biomaterials
  3. Mechanical Properties of Living Tissue
  4. Biocompatibility
  5. Surface Modification of Implants
  6. Regenerative Medicine and Tissue-Mimicking Materials
  7. Bacterial Contamination
  8. Optical and Thermal Properties of Materials
  9. Acoustic and Mechanical Properties

What You Will Learn

In this module, you will:

  • learn about the applications of medical implants and devices, and biocompatibility
  • learn about interaction between biological systems and prosthetic materials during tissue regeneration
  • learn about the biomechanical properties of tissue and materials such as metals, ceramics, and plastics
  • gain a basic understanding of natural biomaterials
  • learn about the basic properties of implant materials and the way in which these influence their biocompatibility
  • learn about the effects of material used in implants including mechanical, thermal, and optical properties
  • gain practical experience of testing mechanical properties, i.e. tensile and compressive testing
  • grain practical experience in the ultrasonic imaging of phantoms

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

  • describe the mechanical properties of body fluids and living tissue including bone, skin, tendon, ligament, muscle, and cartilage
  • describe the material properties of solids and fluids
  • describe selection criteria for suitable biomaterials
  • apply knowledge to specific implant design problems
  • describe modern biomaterials in medicine and surgery
  • describe the medical application of smart materials and structures
  • have competence in writing to accepted academic standards

Assignments / assessment

  • coursework (30%)
    • essays
    • laboratory reports
  • final examination (70%)

Teaching methods / timetable

  • lectures
  • seminars
  • laboratory workshops
    • production of a medical phantom for acoustic measurements
    • mechanical property testing of biomaterials
  • tutorials
    • reinforce basic concepts
    • use assignment metrics to highlight perceived areas of conceptual difficulty
  • self-study and assessment tasks