Public Funding for Depuy International Limited

To develop design rules and quality assessment procedures for solid and porous titanium alloy medical implants made using additive manufacture techniques

The aim of this project is to develop a high impact reduction in the risk of failure for orthopaedic implants by controlling the nano-topography of Ti implant surfaces. The project will build on two recent separate areas of research in nanofeatures and nanopatterns. The project will exploit recent technologial innovations in nano-fabrication to develop a novel nanotopography. The project is led by the global market leader in orthopaedic implants, with technical leaders in nanofabrication and nanocharacterisation. This project will develop: nano-patterned surface structures; the manufacturing method to industrially and economically generate the requisite complex surface structure; and assess the potential performance of a prototype implant surface.

This project will create a working prototype of a phosphate fibre production facility. Phosphate fibres can dissolve in water to produce materials that are present in the bones and are useful in treating damaged and broken bones. Creation of this production facility will provide the phosphate fibres in a form that can be used to make fabrics and this will be demonstrated by one of the project partners. Fabrics are much more convenient to handle than fibres alone and can be transformed into other products, such as reinforced plastics. These plastics can also dissolve in water and be applied in medicine, but also in other industries where the ability to dissolve in water would be of benefit. For example, recycling is a key issue for the future.

To apply process improvement techniques to the field of elective joint replacement surgery with the aim of improving hospital productivity and reducing healthcare cost.

To develop new and innovative treatment for osteoporosis based on the unique combination of a medical device and a pharmaceutical product.

To investigate the links between implant system design variables and corrosion in joint replacements and to develop and introduce new procedures into system design.

The public description for this project has been requested but has not yet been received.

Awaiting Public Summary

Awaiting Public Summary

Awaiting Public Summary