Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites in implants: a review

This paper presents a brief literature review of biomaterials used in medical applications such as bone plates, joint replacement, dental implant etc. In addition to biocompatibility, biomechanical nature of biomaterials is an important specific consideration. Biomaterials should possess the mechanical properties necessary for proper performance and functionality. They are categorized as Metals, Ceramics, Polymers or Composites. Fiber reinforced polymer composites (FRPCs) combine useful properties of its constituents, thus creating the possibility of making designs stronger, lighter, highly corrosion resistant etc. Different types of polymer composite biomaterials already in use are discussed in this paper. The advantages and disadvantages of polymer composites for selected applications are also presented.by Navjodh Singh Rooprai, Brijesh Gangil and Abhijit Mishr

Physio-mechanical & wear performance of banana fiber/walnut powder based epoxy composites

The present environmental condition indicates the immediate need for sustainable materials containing mainly natural elements for composite fabrication. Encouragement of natural fibers in composite materials can significantly reduce the greenhouse effect and the high cost of manufacturing synthetic fiber-based polymer composites. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the physio-mechanical properties of banana fiber (BF) fiber - based epoxy (EP) composites filled with walnut shell powder (WNP). Fabrication was carried out by mixing and cold pressing with fixed BF proportion and varying percentages of WNP (0%, 5%, 10%, 15 wt. %). The results obtained in the study suggest the mechanical properties of the BF/EP composite were enhanced with the addition of WNP as a filler. This is because the WNP filler occupies the spaces in the composite, which bridge the gaps between the banana fibers and the epoxy matrix; also, the inclusion of walnut powder in the BF/EP composites greatly enhanced their wear resistance. The microstructural properties of the composites were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM)

Mechanical properties of fibre/filler based polylactic Acid (PLA) composites: a brief review

Being a biodegradable polymer, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) based composites receive greater preference over nonbiodegradable plastics. Poly(lactic acid) has to find its place in various applications such as polymer composites, agriculture, biomedical, etc. Polymer composites based on PLA possess comparable mechanical strength, endurance, flexibility and endures future opportunities. Several combinations of natural fibers and filler-based PLA composites have been fabricated and investigated for physical and mechanical changes. Moreover, several biopolymers and compatibilizers are added to PLA to provide rigidity. The paper presents a tabulated review of the various natural fiber/filter-based PLA composites and the preparation and outcomes. In addition, enhancement made by the reinforcement of nano filler in the PLA are also discussed in brief. The significance of PLA in the biomedical application has been discussed in brief. The paper also shed lights in the social and economic aspects of PLA

Himalayan Natural Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites: Effect of Grewia optiva/Bauhinia Vahlii Fibers on Physico-mechanical and Dry Sliding Wear Behavior

The physical, mechanical, and sliding wear properties of Grewia optiva and hybrid G. optiva/Bauhinia vahlii fiber-reinforced epoxy composites were investigated. Results reveal that 6 wt.% hybrid G. optiva/B. vahlii fiber-added composites resulted in highest physical (void content, water absorption) and mechanical (impact energy, hardness, tensile, and flexural strength) properties. An L27 orthogonal array of Taguchi method was implemented to extract the optimal level of control factors. The optimal combination of control factors for achieving lowest wear rate was obtained as 4 wt.% fiber content, 2.5 m/s sliding velocity, 15 N normal load and 2000 m sliding distance

Promising Role of Polylactic Acid as an Ingenious Biomaterial in Scaffolds, Drug Delivery, Tissue Engineering, and Medical Implants: Research Developments, and Prospective Applications

In the present scenario, the research is now being focused on the naturally occurring polymers that can gradually replace the existing synthetic polymers for the development of bio composites having applications in medical surgeries and human implants. With promising mechanical properties and bio compatibility with human tissues, poly lactic acid (PLA) is now being viewed as a future bio material. In order to examine the applicability of PLA in human implants, the current article sheds light on the synthesis of PLA and its various copolymers used to alter its physical and mechanical properties. In the latter half, various processes used for the fabrication of biomaterials are discussed in detail. Finally, biomaterials that are currently in use in the field of biomedical (Scaffolding, drug delivery, tissue engineering, medical implants, derma, cosmetics, medical surgeries, and human implants) are represented with respective advantages in the sphere of biomaterials

Critical Review on Polylactic Acid: Properties, Structure, Processing, Biocomposites, and Nanocomposites

Composite materials are emerging as a vital entity for the sustainable development of both humans and the environment. Polylactic acid (PLA) has been recognized as a potential polymer candidate with attractive characteristics for applications in both the engineering and medical sectors. Hence, the present article throws lights on the essential physical and mechanical properties of PLA that can be beneficial for the development of composites, biocomposites, films, porous gels, and so on. The article discusses various processes that can be utilized in the fabrication of PLA-based composites. In a later section, we have a detailed discourse on the various composites and nanocomposites-based PLA along with the properties’ comparisons, discussing our investigation on the effects of various fibers, fillers, and nanofillers on the mechanical, thermal, and wear properties of PLA. Lastly, the various applications in which PLA is used extensively are discussed in detail