The
focus of the Biomaterials Research Laboratory is to understand microscopic
processes that bring about macroscopic changes in material properties.
The lab employs a number of spectroscopic techniques to evaluate the
production of free radicals in sterilized implants. This work has led
to changes in the manufacturing processes used by the orthopedic industry.
Over the last decade, the lab has expanded to provide analytical services
for most of the world’s orthopedic manufacturers.
The laboratory has a state-of-the-art Electron Spin Resonance (ESR)
Radical Analyzer (Bruker Instruments). The ESR technique is unique in
its ability to elucidate molecular defect sites in various materials,
which are often pre-cursors to material property degradation. The laboratory
also employs a number of optical emission and spectroscopic techniques,
including UV/VIS/NIR spectrophotometry, thermoluminescence and radiation-induced
emission. These experimental techniques can be carried out at material
temperatures from 25 to 500 Kelvin.
These
powerful scientific tools allow researchers to put together a fundamental
understanding of material behavior in various environments. The ultimate
result is a predictive model that can be used to improve man-made materials
like those used in hip and knee joint replacements. Researchers work
closely with colleagues at Los Alamos National Laboratory, providing
experimentation and expertise to assist with the US Nuclear Stockpile
Stewardship program.
High-energy
X-Ray for irradiation (50kV, 40mA source)
Gamma-
and Ebeam-irradiation through third-party contractor
Cryogenic
to elevated temperatures
High-Vacuum
Analytical
Services for Industry and
Research Institutions
The Physics department has a wealth of analytical resources that can
be applied to industrial Research and Development projects on a fee-for-service
basis. For example, faculty and researchers support various industrial
organizations in the fields of polymer research and orthopedics like
Cambridge Polymer Group, Smith & Nephew Orthopedics, Wright Medical
Technologies, Inc., and a host of others. All information is kept
completely confidential to preserve the proprietary intellectual property
interests.
Examples
of Analytical Services:
Quantification
of Free Radical Concentration in crosslinked and conventional
polyethylene
Characterization
of the reflectivity properties in tanning lotion formulae using
optical Absorption/Transmission/Reflection measurements
Examples
of Ongoing Projects
Free
Radicals in Biomaterials
Polyethylene
components of hip and knee replacements
The
focus of the Biomaterials Research Laboratory is to understand microscopic
processes that bring about macroscopic changes in material properties.
The lab employs a number of spectroscopic techniques to evaluate the
production of free radicals in sterilized implants. This work has led
to changes in the manufacturing processes used by the orthopedic industry.
Over the last decade, the lab has expanded to provide analytical services
for most of the world’s orthopedic manufacturers.
