Biomaterialler

Biomaterialler are materials designed to interface with biological systems for medical purposes. They can be natural or synthetically produced and are used to replace, augment, or interact with tissues and organs. The aim is to perform a function while remaining compatible with the body's biological environment, minimizing adverse reactions.

Classification includes metals (for example titanium alloys, stainless steel, cobalt-chromium), ceramics (such as hydroxyapatite and alumina), polymers (including PMMA, UHMWPE, PLA, PEG), and composites or natural materials (like collagen and chitosan). Biomaterialler may be non-degradable or resorbable, designed to be gradually replaced by host tissue.

Key properties include biocompatibility, mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and controllable degradation. Surface properties and sterilization strategies are critical; surface modification, coatings, and nanoscale features are used to enhance integration with tissue and reduce infection.

Applications span orthopedics (joint replacements, plates, screws), dentistry (implants), cardiovascular devices (stents, heart valves), ophthalmology, wound dressings, and tissue engineering scaffolds that support cell growth and tissue regeneration or act as drug delivery systems.

Development and regulation: biomaterial research addresses host response, integration, and long-term performance. Regulatory bodies require biocompatibility testing (ISO 10993), preclinical studies, and clinical trials. Ongoing challenges include inflammation, infection, and long-term stability, while future directions focus on bioactive, resorbable, and smart materials enabling personalized medicine and regenerative approaches.