Biomechanics and Biomaterials module (BE22002)

This module gives students a firm grounding in the principles of biomechanics and biomaterials. The module aims to equip students to undertake analysis of mechanical structures. Here the fundamental principles of mechanics will be applied to the human body as a load bearing structure. Furthermore the students will be introduced to biomaterials, in particular their properties and behaviour.

Core contents includes:

1. Fundamental principles in solid mechanics: force diagrams, section properties, bending and deflection, torsion and shear force actions in beams; relationship between stress and strain; relationship between load and structural response; failure criteria.
2. Introduction to biomechanics of human tissue: bone and soft tissue; load-deformation, stress-strain; elasticity, viscosity, viscoelasticity; anisotropy.
3. Introduction to biomaterials: natural and synthetic materials; mechanical properties of biomaterials; tissue mimicking.