Numerical Modeling of Healthcare Materials

Abstract

Healthcare materials, whether natural or synthetic, consist of intricate structures formed from simpler components. Due to their complex structure, composite materials are optimal for prosthetics as their properties may be adjusted to align with those of bone, hence promoting biointegration. For optimal efficacy, implants must be appropriately tailored to the host, requiring comprehensive control of both the implant design and its progression over time during utilization. For composite implants, it is essential to maintain material control at the macroscopic level during the shaping process while simultaneously ensuring the quality of the interface, which is influenced by nanoscale phenomena. This study demonstrates that the issue can be addressed using a multi-scale strategy, wherein numerical modeling serves as an effective tool. We describe the implementation of the approach and present the main methods and concepts involved in modeling composite biomaterials. Subsequently, we present a specific illustration of the protocol by discussing the initial phase of the recently developed “grafting from” technique for fabricating implants using hybrid biomaterials.