Biomaterials

Not applicable.

The teaching methodology is developed through theoretical classes using slides, accompanied by the presentation of some practical cases/examples of application. Theoretical-practical classes are also intended to solve problems related to the study of the properties of materials that are most relevant to biomedical applications. Student participation is strongly encouraged by the great interaction promoted by the teacher.

The slides and problem sheets are previously available to students on the academic platform InforEstudante.

The course assessment consists of a final exam.

The purpose of this course is to provide students with an overview of the structure, function and properties of the various classes of materials used in biomedical applications. The objectives to be achieved by students attending this course include:

1. knowledge and understand the basic principles of materials science (chemical bonding, crystal structure, phasic constitution, etc.);

2. ability to classify any material for biomedical applications in its class (metals, polymers, ceramics and composites);

3. relate the most relevant properties of the various classes of materials to their nature and specific biomedical applications;

4. knowledge and understand the most relevant tissue-biomaterial interactions.

1. Introduction to Materials Science and Engineering: types of materials; future trends in the use of materials.
2. Classes of materials used as biomaterials: metals, polymers, ceramics and composites; most important applications and properties; characterization of the various materials types.
3. Introduction to biomaterials: historical perspective on the development of biomaterials and their applications; introduction to Tissue Engineering.
4. Biomedical aspects of biomaterials: biological reactions to the introduction and presence of biomaterials/medical devices; tissue-biomaterial interaction; biodegradation; biocompatibility assessment; bioactive materials.
5. Medical applications in repair, replacement and regeneration of soft tissue and hard tissue: examples of orthopedic, ophthalmic, vascular, dental, among others applications. Hydrogels. Drug delivery systems.

NAO

1.   Callister, W. D., & Rethwisch, D. G. (2011). Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering: An integrated Approach. John Wiley & Sons Inc. (in the ISEC library)

2.   Smith, W. F. (1998). Princípios de Ciência e Engenharia dos Materiais (3ª ed.). Lisboa: McGraw-Hill. (in the ISEC library)

3.   Ratner, B. D., Schoen, F. J., Hoffman, A. S. & Lemons, J. E. (Eds.). (2013). Biomaterials Science: An Introduction to Materials in Medicine. Academic Press.

4.   Park, J. B. & Lakes, R. S. (2007). Biomaterials: An Introduction. New York: Springer. (in the ISEC library)

5.   Shi, D. (Ed.). (2004). Biomaterials and tissue engineering. Berlin: Springer-Verlag.