Implantable Biomedical Devices and Biologically Inspired Materials

Abstract

Experimental mechanics is playing an important role in the development of new implantable biomedical devices through an advanced understanding of the microstructure/property relationship for biocompatible materials and their effect on the structure/performance of these devices. A similar understanding is also being applied to the development of new biologically inspired materials and systems that are analogs of biological counterparts. This chapter attempts to elucidate on the synergy between the research and development activities in these two areas through the application of experimental mechanics. Fundamental information is provided on the motivation for the science and technology required to develop these areas, and the associated contributions being made by the experimental mechanics community. The challenges that are encountered when investigating the unique mechanical behavior and properties of devices, materials, and systems are also presented. Specific examples are provided to illustrate these issues, and the application of experimental mechanics techniques, such as Photoelasticity, Digital Image Correlation, and Nanoindentation, to understand and characterize them at multiple length scales. It is the purpose of this chapter to describe the application of experimental mechanics in understanding the mechanics of implantable biomedical devices, as well as biologically inspired materials and systems. In particular, the experimental techniques used to develop this understanding, and the fundamental scientific and technical insight that has been obtained into various aspects of processing/microstructure/property/structure/ performance relationships in these devices, materials, and systems will be reviewed.