Diatoms, which can be found in many different forms in our oceans, have filigree, highly porous and yet resistant structures. The KIKI research project of the UBRA member institutions Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI) and Leibniz Institute for Materials-Oriented Technologies (IWT) is investigating how these structures can be used to optimize endoprostheses such as shoulder or hip prostheses. The aim is to improve the mechanical strength of these implants in the short term and their biocompatibility in the long term by developing a method for AI-supported structuring of prostheses.
As part of the project, compression and bending specimens are subjected to cyclic load tests, analyzed and the results used to develop an AI tool. This tool will help to determine the optimal structure for prostheses in order to improve the load distribution between bone and prosthesis and prevent bone material degradation.
For patients, this means fewer complications and a longer durability of the implants, leading to a reduction in follow-up operations. The results of this project could contribute to a paradigm shift in the development of medical technology materials.
Cooperating in U Bremen Research Alliance:
