Predicting a Power Law Between Elastic Modulus and Porosity in Cortical Bone: A Micromechanics Model

Abstract

Age-related changes in microstructure and composition of bone tissue are becoming increasing important as people continue to live longer. The cortical porosity increases with age in both men and women [1]. Age related increases in Haversian canal size and Haversian canal number contribute to the increasing porosity of cortical bone for the elderly men and women [2, 3]. The number of osteoclastic resorption space is also greater in the old men than in the young men [3]. The increased porosity and the higher prevalence of giant Haverian canals have a markedly negative influence on the ability of the cortical shell to withstand mechanical loads associated with a fall [4].