In the strategic field of biomedicine, the research focus includes surface optimization of various biomedical materials with focus on osseointegrative surface properties. In cooperation with the Institute of Printing Technology (TU Darmstadt, FB Mechanical Engineering IDD, Prof. Dörsam) first development for surface functionalization of additively manufactured implants are made.
With the Department of Biology (TU Darmstadt, FB Biology, working group Fr. Saul)in vitro cell tests with respect to various surface modifications are under investigation.
- Surface characterization
- Topographic analysis (macroscopy, confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, line and area roughness measurements)
- Chemical-physical analysis (surface energy, contact angle)
- tribological determination (micro and nano scratch test)
- mechanical properties (indentation hardness and indentation modulus)
- Osseointegrative and osteoconductive surface functionalization via patterning (micro and nano range) and PVD coating (magnetron sputtering system)
- Characterization of biocompatible polymers
- Determination of the crystalline fraction (DSC)
- Melt rheology (viscosity)
- Extensional Young's modulus
- Development of a Livecell-Chamber (SuBiTU) for the observation of cell development on implant surfaces
