Modules
Courses / Modules / SESM3028 Biomaterials

Biomaterials

When you'll study it
Semester 2
CATS points
15
ECTS points
7.5
Level
Level 6
Module lead
Martin Browne
Academic year
2025-26

Module overview

A biomaterial can be described as a material used in a biomedical device intended to interact with biological systems. The selection of an appropriate biomaterial is critical to the performance of an implant. For a hip replacement, properties such as good strength, excellent corrosion resistance, fatigue resistance and biocompatibility are required to ensure the hip replacement does not fail in service. In this module, you will learn about the various polymer, metal and ceramic based materials used as biomaterials, and discover why these materials have been accepted into clinical practice. A series of case studies will be used as examples to show how past failures have led to the materials that are used today, in particular, focussing on hip and knee replacements.