3D printing of high strength bio-degradable composites for medical applications

Biodegradable polymer is widely used in producing medical devices including scaffolds in tissue engineering, orthopaedic devices in bone fracture healing, and stents in vascular diseases. However the main drawbacks of the current biodegradable polymer system are lack of strength and controlling the degradation rates. This research will investigate how 3D printing can be evolved and adapted to accommodate the production of bio-degradable composites, for potential medical applications. 3D printing technologies allowed us to design different composites to reinforce the biodegradable polymer and also to control the biodegradation rates.  

This project will build on existing research activities within the Additive Manufacturing Research Group at Loughborough University and would aim to attract additional industry support. The application of this project will be stents, blood vessel grafts and capillaries embedded in the scaffolds.  

The ideal student would have an interest in the medical application of additive manufacturing and possess strong mechanical and mechatronics skills.

Loughborough University is a top-ten rated university in England for research intensity (REF2014) and an outstanding 66% of the work of Loughborough’s academic staff who were eligible to be submitted to the REF was judged as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, compared to a national average figure of 43%.

In choosing Loughborough for your research, you’ll work alongside academics who are leaders in their field. You will benefit from comprehensive support and guidance from our Graduate School, including tailored careers advice, to help you succeed in your research and future career.

Find out more: http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/supporting-you/research/

Entry requirements
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in mechanical engineering or a related subject. A relevant Master’s degree and/or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: Additive Manufacturing or Mechatronics and Control.

All applications should be made online at http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/apply/research/.  

Under programme name, select ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering’

Please quote reference number:  JAC191216