Dear Colleagues,

The polymeric materials used in implantology in general exhibit a set of unfavorable mechanical properties, such as mechanical strength, Young's modulus and crack resistance. An improvement of these characteristics is created by composite materials, in which the second phase can impart appropriate mechanical and biological properties. Possibility to produce materials with controlled mechanical properties and biological behavior is provided by polymer composites (biostable and bioresorbable) containing a second phase of bioactive agent in the form of particles or fibers. The use of resorbable matrices leads to a multifunctional implants in which after the fulfillment of biomechanical function (fixation) and after the resorption of the polymer phase and can serve as a scaffold for bone growth.

The polymer matrix is the main component and the framework for polymer composites. The matrix plays the role of excipient and sustains the shape. The microstructure, chemical composition, cross-linking degree, length of chains of polymeric base is important and involve specific physicochemical and mechanical properties of composites.

The segments and chains in the molecules of the polymer matrix may take different special conformations and arrangements to accommodate the passageway for ionic transport in the body.

Composites with addition of bioactive phase exhibit beneficial biological behavior as bioactive particles (originating from the HA, TCP) can act as anchor for bone tissue, which provides good bonding of implants with the living tissue. In case of biostable composites, introduction of particles or fibers into the polymer matrix can change the mechanism of interaction with the biological environment and thus affect the long-term operation of these implants.

Development of the polymer matrix composites is an important step towards creating a new generation of bioactive materials for applications in medicine and dentistry, which can become the basis for development of new implant and dental materials.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

   ● Bioresorbable polymer matrix composites in bone surgery
   ● Biostable polymer matrix composites in bone surgery
   ● Fiber reinforced composites
   ● Natural polymers (polysaccharides, proteins, etc.)
   ● Synthesized polymers (polyesters, polyetheretherketone, etc.)
   ● Chemical degradation of polymers in the body
   ● Stabilization for permanent implant
   ● Polymer degradation mechanism
   ● Kinetics for bioresorbable matrices
   ● Nanomaterials reinforced composites

Dr. Agnieszka Sobczak-Kupiec
Dr. Timothy E.L. Douglas
Guest Editors

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