Bulk Properties of Biomaterials and Testing Techniques

Abstract

Mechanical properties are basic requirements for biomaterials. Depending on the targeted application(s) of the biomaterial, specific mechanical tests need to be conducted for the biomaterial. In this article, basic mechanical properties of bulk biomaterials and their testing methods, including tensile testing, compression testing, shear testing, torsional testing, flexural testing, impact testing, and dynamic mechanical analysis, are introduced. Long-term mechanical properties and their testing methods, including stress relaxation, creep, fatigue, friction, and wear, are reviewed. Specific tests for determining the bonding strength are also covered. Mechanical testing at the micro- and nanoscale is important for both scientific research and biomaterials development. For each type of mechanical tests, examples are given to illustrate its relevance to biomaterials R&D. All mechanical tests must be performed according to testing standards.