The properties and characteristics of photocurable nanocomposites can be tailored to mimic those of various tissues and/or cartilage, allowing the bio-inspired synthetic materials to replace them. Ultimately, this study aims to 3D print the replacements so they can be tailored to fit individual patients. Therefore, it is critical that the thermal, mechanical, and rheological properties of the nanocomposites be more acutely understood to better predict the behavior of the replacements. With the incorporation of silica nanoparticles, the composite will incur more integrity allowing it to withstand greater loads. The mechanical properties of composites with varying silica loadings were studied through compressive testing to understand how the polymer structure and nanoparticle loading impacts the compressive strength. In addition, the sol-gel fractions, water uptake, and thermal properties were analyzed to give further insight to their behaviors within the body. As expected, it was found that the silica additives generally induce a stiffer and more structurally sound composite. Additionally, it was found that the nanoparticles do not inhibit water absorption, which demonstrates that their applicability as cartilage replacements will not be hindered due to the additive. Characterizing these properties lays a fundamental foundation for these composites, allowing them to be tailored for use in individual patients and to potentially direct the future of cartilage replacements.

Photocurable poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate resins with variable silica nanoparticle loading

2019 Fall National Meeting

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