Creating the Next Generation of Antimicrobial Hybrid Composites for Biomedical Applications: Manufacturing, Multiscale Modeling, and Mechanical Characterization

创建用于生物医学应用的下一代抗菌混合复合材料：制造、多尺度建模和机械表征

• 批准号: RGPIN-2019-05615
• 负责人: Bougherara, Habiba
• 金额: $ 4.66万
• 依托单位: Ryerson University
• 依托单位国家: 加拿大
• 项目类别: Discovery Grants Program - Individual
• 财政年份: 2020
• 资助国家: 加拿大
• 起止时间: 2020-01-01 至 2021-12-31
• 项目状态: 已结题
• 来源: https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/ase-oro/Details-Detailles_eng.asp?id=715623
• 关键词: Creating; Next; Generation; Antimicrobial; Hybrid

The need for custom-fit, strong, and long-lasting implants for bone fracture fixation still poses major challenges to researchers and surgeons, as metallic implants fail to optimally transfer the load to the host bone. Despite modern advances in implants' designs and treatment options, complications associated with metal implants remain unresolved. The long term objective of my proposed research program is to develop an innovative manufacturing platform to fabricate the next generation of hybrid composite implants with antimicrobial capabilities and advanced performance. Specifically, my research program aims to achieve the following short term objectives: 1) Create a new, integrated platform that combines a 6DOF robotic arm, a 3D extruder, and a UVC-LED device to systematically 3D print fracture fixation implants with improved properties. 2) Develop an antimicrobial coating technology to improve the natural fibres' wettability and also protect them from mold, bacteria, and other microbial contaminants. 3) Fabricate the hybrid composite implants using the new platform and perform multiscale experimental characterization. 4) Develop a new multiscale, physics-based model to predict the mechanical behaviour and the long term durability of these antimicrobial, 3D-printed composite implants. To achieve these goals, we will design and integrate an innovative UVC-LED device into a 3D printing platform so that the hybrid fibres can be sterilized while they are being fabricated. We will transform a multipurpose robot platform to incorporate a 3D extruder in order to 3D print both natural and synthetic fibres. We will improve the properties of the fibres by using a low cost, non-leaching, and environmentally friendly preservative. We will perform multiscale testing of the 3D-printed hybrid composites to investigate their mechanical behaviour using advanced destructive and non-destructive testing techniques. We will also develop, and validate a new multiscale model to predict their damage and fatigue behaviour. From an economic and environmental perspective, the proposed research program is vital for Canada's manufacturing industry. It will advance the state-of-the-art manufacturing of fibre-reinforced composites by improving our understanding of the effects of UV-LED sterilization and hybridization on their technical properties, processing, and performance. It will also guide the development of new, high performance, lightweight, and cost effective biocomposite structures. Custom-fit healthcare implants, reduced environmental impact, and cost savings are among the immediate benefits of the proposed technology. Canada will also benefit from the highly skilled HQP who will be trained and supported by this research program. A total of 12 HQPs, including 50% women and 50% men, will be trained in a highly collaborative, equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment in various areas relevant to the natural sciences and engineering (NSE) field.

由于金属植入物无法将载荷最佳地转移到宿主骨上，因此对定制的、坚固的、持久的骨折固定植入物的需求仍然是研究人员和外科医生面临的主要挑战。尽管种植体的设计和治疗选择在现代取得了进步，但与金属种植体相关的并发症仍未得到解决。