Investigation and optimisation of materials and surfaces for medical technology applications
Our researchers analyse and optimize materials and surfaces for medical applications. We characterise biomaterials for implants, surgical tools, and diagnostic devices.
We also carry out static and dynamic mechanical strength tests (tensile and compression, endurance, service life), as well as removal torque tests and damage analysis using electron microscopy.
For the development and characterization of new implant surfaces (e.g. antibacterial surfaces) we structure and functionalize surfaces down to the sub-µm scale. We develop bio-resorbable free-form implants made of Mg and three-dimensional NiTi lattice structures, which in future could be used as intelligent implants.
Research focus areas
Development and testing
A wide range of characterisation and testing options are available for development and testing tasks:
- Topographical analysis
- Crystallographic analysis
- Structural, metallographic microstructure analysis, including ion milling preparation
- Hardness, roughness and coating thickness measurement
- Tribological characterisation
- Chemical analysis
- µcomputed tomography examination
- (Bio)mechanical analyses
Biomechanical strength tests
We carry out static and dynamic (bio)mechanical strength tests such as tensile and compression tests at various temperatures, load capacity, fatigue and service life tests. We can also perform bore-out/torque measurements and tests with complex, multi-multi-axial load sequences. State-of-the-art motion analyzers with video extensometers, digital image correlation, and 3D navigation systems are available for the detection of trajectories and deformations.
Our project partners:
- University Hospital of Basel
- ARTHRO Medics, #shoulder and elbow center
- Atesos Medical AG
- Medartis
- Institut Straumann AG
- Mimedis
Implant surfaces
To develop and characterise new implant surfaces (e.g. antibacterial surfaces), we structure and functionalise surfaces down to the sub-µm scale. We develop bioresorbable free-form implants made of Mg and three-dimensional NiTi lattice structures, which could be used as smart implants in the future.
Projects
Publications
Contact
Prof. Dr. Michael de Wild
- Phone
- +41 61 228 56 49
- michael.dewild@fhnw.ch