Authors:
Prathviraj Upadhyaya (South Eastern Applied Materials (SEAM) Research Centre, Ireland),
Sinéad M. Uí Mhurchadha (Waterford Institute of Technology, Ireland),
Tríona Kennedy (Stryker European Operations Limited, Ireland),
Ramesh Raghavendra (South Eastern Applied Materials (SEAM) Research Centre, Ireland)
Abstract:
WE43 magnesium alloy is a low density, biocompatible material that has been identified as a viable option for temporary orthopaedic implants due to its favourable mechanical and biodegradation properties. This bioresorbable material eliminates the requirement for an invasive second surgery to remove a traditional bioinert temporary implant after the bone has regenerated. Additive manufacturing allows for complex structures with biomimicry features to be produced. However, the additive manufacturing of Magnesium and its alloys is not a trivial task due to challenges associated with the processability of Magnesium. This paper presents a methodology to additively manufacture WE43 components. Furthermore, an additively manufactured demonstrator orthopaedic fixture is presented and the microstructure evolved within the part and the resulting mechanical and corrosion properties are characterised. This research is aimed towards the development of additively manufactured, bioresorbable orthopaedic implants, with potential to improve clinical outcomes for patients.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59499/WP225372016