Biocomposites : their multifunctionality

Abstract

During the last decade, tissue engineering has shown a considerable promise in providing more viable alternatives to surgical procedures for harvested tissues, implants and prostheses. Due to the fast development on nano- and biomaterial technologies, it is now possible for doctors to use patients' cells to repair orthopaedic defects such as focal articular cartilage lesions. In order to support the three-dimensional tissue formation, scaffolds made by biocompatible and bioresorbable polymers and composite materials, for providing temporary support of damaged body and cell structures, have been developed recently. Although ceramic and metallic materials have been widely accepted for the development of implants, their non-resorbability and necessity of second surgical operation (like for bone repair), which induce extra pain for the patients, limit their wide applications. The development of different types of biocomposites for biomedical engineering applications is described. These biocomposites include (i) basic biomaterials; (ii) natural fiber-reinforced biocomposites and (iii) nanoparticle-reinforced biocomposites. Their multifunctionality is discussed in terms of the control of mechanical properties, biodegradability and bioresorbability.