Finite element analysis of 3D printed scaffolds

Abstract

The use of finite element analysis (FEA) as an alternative tool to evaluate the mechanical properties of 3D printed scaffolds is one of the first steps to find optimum 3D porous scaffolds with interconnected porosity and with good mechanical properties. First of all, the simulations and measurements are performed in a non-destructive way. This is important because mechanical properties are extracted without compromising the structure to real mechanical loads. The level of porosity, pore size distribution, pore morphology and the degree of pore interconnectivity in bone grafts significantly influence the extent of bone ingrowth [1]. To calculate porosity would be a important way to assist designing 3D scaffold with optimum characteristics as required for a particular patient in need. Such analysis can be used to vary several geometrical or material parameters at the same time and to choose the most suitable ones for the replacement of natural tissues [2]. Porosity and pore sizes of scaffolds play a critical role in bone formation. Pores are necessary for bone tissue formation because they allow migration and proliferation of osteoblasts and mesenchymal cells, as well as vascularization [3]. Porous scaffolds were designed varying parameters by SOLIDWORKS software. The chosen architectures are defined as woodpiles: geometry, where layer consists of parallel logs which are rotated certain angle every next layer. So, to change the porisity need to change main scaffold parameters: h – log high, b – log width, w – pore size, T - period (b + w).