Investigation of mechanical properties and ageing of zirconia for medical implants

Investigation of mechanical properties and ageing of zirconia for medical implants

Advisor/s

Elsa Antunes

College or Research Centre

College of Science & Engineering

Summary of Project

People are living longer and they will need medical implants to keep their quality of life. Yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) has been widely studied for biomedical implants. However, the decrease of mechanical properties due to ageing in human body (in contact with body fluids) is not well understood yet. Exploring the mechanisms of ageing and their implications on mechanical properties of biomedical implants will be critical to enhance implant lifetime and avoid its replacement. Sintering temperature impacts significantly on microstructure of ceramics, porosity, grain size and crystallite structure, which affect mechanical properties of the final ceramic part. The aim of this project is to investigate the impact of sintering cycle on mechanical and aesthetic properties of Y-TZP for dental implants. Further, ageing of these ceramic implants will be tested and its impact on mechanical properties.

Key Words

zirconia; Y-TZP; sintering; engineering; mechanical properties

Would suit an applicant who

A candidate will have a relevant BE Honours degree or Master in Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or equivalent.

Updated: 08 Apr 2020