This module explores advanced material concepts relevant to biomedical design, with a focus on tribocorrosion, biocompatibility, and surface treatments of biomaterials. Students will also investigate the principles of tissue engineering, analyzing the triad of cells, scaffolds, and signalling, along with material choices and fabrication techniques for scaffold development. The module also examines methods of stimulating cellular growth, particularly through physical stimulation using bioreactors. Ethical and sustainability considerations within tissue engineering are critically discussed to support responsible and informed biomedical material design.
Tribocorrosion and Biocompatibility: This section introduces the fundamental principles of tribocorrosion, focusing on how combined mechanical wear and corrosion processes affect biomaterials in physiological environments. Students will explore how surface degradation impacts biocompatibility and implant longevity, and will analyse the interrelationship between mechanical stress, corrosion resistance, and biological response.
Surface Treatment and Characterisation of Biomaterials: Students will examine various surface treatment techniques used to enhance biomaterial performance, including coatings, plasma treatments, chemical etching, and surface patterning. The module will cover the principles and application of surface characterisation methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), contact angle analysis, and spectroscopy. The importance of surface properties in influencing cell behaviour and material performance will be critically evaluated.
Tissue Engineering Foundations: The Triad of Cells, Scaffolds, and Signalling: This section explores the core components of tissue engineering—cells, scaffolds, and biochemical/physical signalling pathways. Students will learn how these elements interact to facilitate tissue regeneration and how scaffold design and material selection influence cellular outcomes. Emphasis will be placed on scaffold bioactivity, architecture, and degradation profiles.
Materials and Fabrication Techniques for Scaffolds: A range of natural and synthetic materials used in scaffold fabrication will be introduced, including collagen, chitosan, polylactic acid (PLA), and polycaprolactone (PCL). Students will evaluate key scaffold fabrication methods such as electrospinning, 3D printing, freeze-drying, and solvent casting, with consideration of their impact on pore structure, mechanical integrity, and biocompatibility.
Cell Stimulation and the Role of Bioreactors: This section focuses on methods used to stimulate cell growth and differentiation in tissue-engineered constructs, with an emphasis on physical stimuli including shear stress, mechanical loading, and electrical cues. Students will explore the design and operation of bioreactors and how they are used to mimic in vivo environments for improved tissue development.
Ethical and Sustainability Considerations in Tissue Engineering: Students will engage with contemporary ethical issues related to the development and use of tissue-engineered products, including patient consent, long-term safety, and equitable access. Sustainability challenges will also be explored, such as the environmental impact of materials used, energy-intensive fabrication methods, and the potential for circular design in biomedical applications.
