Biodegradable implant system for bone fracture fixation based on magnesium alloys

Host Faculty: Engineering
General Subject Area: Mechanial Engineering
Project Level: PhD
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Craniomaxillofacial bone fracture fixation devices are traditionally-designed from titanium or stainless steel that utilize mini-plates and mini-screws. Traditional plate/screw systems are inert in the body and remain until removed by secondary surgery, creating a significant cost burden for orthopedic health care worldwide.
The objective of the project is to produce a biodegradable plate system composed of a magnesium alloy that negates the requirements for secondary surgery. A focus of the project will be on novel mechanical designs and how these influence degradation profiles in vitro and in vivo. You will work with an experienced supervisory team, having a long track record of working in this field, and have access to an extensive suite of processing/fabrication and experimental test apparatus.

Supervisors

Supervisor: Mark Staiger

Key qualifications and skills

Student must have an honours bachelors degree in either mechanical, chemical, or materials engineering.

Does the project come with funding

No

Final date for receiving applications

Ongoing

Keywords

materials; biomaterials; bone; implant; design; corrosion; magnesium