This title gives an overview of composites and biocomposites. It discusses the history of CaPO4/ /polymer biocomposites and hybrid biomaterials, as well as analyzing the latest developments in the field. It also covers bioactivity and biodegradation of CaPO4-based biomaterials.

Due to a great chemical similarity with the biological calcified tissues, many calcium orthophosphates possess remarkable biocompatibility and bioactivity. Materials scientists use this property extensively to construct artificial bone grafts that are either entirely made of or only surface-coated with the biologically relevant calcium orthophospha

In this book, the state-of-the-art of calcium orthophosphate-based biocomposites and hybrid biomaterials suitable for biomedical applications is presented. This subject belongs to a rapidly expanding area of science and research because these types of biomaterials offer many significant and exciting possibilities for hard tissue regeneration. Through the successful combination of the desired properties of matrix materials with those of fillers (in such systems, calcium orthophosphates might play either role), innovative bone graft biomaterials can be designed. The book starts with an introduction to locate the reader. Further, general information on composites and hybrid materials, including a brief description of their major constituents are presented. Various types of calcium orthophosphate-based bone-analogue biocomposites and hybrid biomaterials, those are either already in use or being investigated for various biomedical applications are then extensively discussed. Many different formulations in terms of the material constituents, fabrication technologies, structural and bioactive properties, as well as both in vitro and in vivo characteristics have already been proposed. Among the others, the nano-structurally controlled biocomposites, those with nano-sized calcium orthophosphates, biomimetically-fabricated formulations with collagen, chitin and/or gelatin, as well as various functionally graded structures seem to be the most promising candidates for clinical applications. The specific advantages of using calcium orthophosphate-based biocomposites and hybrid biomaterials in the selected applications are highlighted. As the way from a laboratory to a hospital is a long one and the prospective biomedical candidates have to meet many different necessities, the critical issues and scientific challenges that require further research and development have been examined as well.

Reflecting the advances made in recent years, this is a comprehensive overview of calcium orthophosphates for bioceramics and biocomposites with a special focus on the detailed description of all those available, including their biological and geological occurrence, preparation, chemical composition, structure-property relationships and applications. In particular, the book discusses the suitability of these orthophosphates for biomedical applications and their use as bone grafts in surgery and medicine. The result is a useful reference for researchers with an academic, medical or commercial background.

Bio-nanocomposites combine the enhanced properties of commercial polymer nanocomposites with the low environmental impact of biodegradable material, making them a topic of great current interest. Because of their tremendous role in reducing dependency on commercial non-biodegradable polymers, and their environmentally-friendly nature, bio-nanocomposites need to be studied in greater detail. In this book, recent advancements in their development are brought together in a single text, to provide researchers with a thorough insight into the various systems, and to open up future perspectives. Although the commercial applications of these bio-nanocomposites are in their infancy, these materials have a huge commercial potential. In setting out the next generation of advances in nanocomposite technology, this book opens the way for further developments in the field. Describing the subject as a whole, from a basic introduction to the more specific systems and advancements, this book can be used both as a professional reference and for teaching purposes.

Green Biocomposites for Biomedical Engineering: Design, Properties, and Applications combines emergent research outcomes with fundamental theoretical concepts relevant to processing, properties and applications of advanced green composites in the field of biomedical engineering. The book outlines the design elements and characterization of biocomposites, highlighting each class of biocomposite separately. A broad range of biomedical applications for biocomposites is then covered, with a final section discussing the ethics and safety regulations associated with manufacturing and the use of biocomposites. With contributions from eminent editors and recognized authors around the world, this book is a vital reference for researchers in biomedical engineering, materials science and environmental science, both in industry and academia. - Provides comprehensive information regarding current advances in the interdisciplinary field of eco-friendly green composite materials for biomedical applications - Offers coverage of state-of-the-art physics-based advanced models used in composites - Lists a broad range of characterization techniques and biomedical applications

Composites in Biomedical Applications presents a comprehensive overview on recent developments in composites and their use in biomedical applications. It features cutting-edge developments to encourage further advances in the field of composite research. Highlights a completely new research theme in polymer-based composite materials Outlines a broad range of different research fields, including polymer and natural fiber reinforcement used in the development of composites for biomedical applications Discusses advanced techniques for the development of composites and biopolymer-based composites Covers fatigue behavior, conceptual design in ergonomics design application, tissue regeneration or replacement, and skeletal bone repair of polymer composites Details the latest developments in synthesis, preparation, characterization, material evaluation, and future challenges of composite applications in the biomedical field This book is a comprehensive resource for advanced students and scientists pursuing research in the broad fields of composite materials, polymers, organic or inorganic hybrid materials, and nano-assembly.