| 简 介： |
Many biomaterials have been developed to replace articular cartilage. One
of these materials, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel is proposed to be used as
artificial cartilage in joint replacement. To better understand the differences between
human articular cartilage and PVA hydrogel, microstructure analysis and unconfined
compression were developed. In microstructure analysis, the surface of articular
cartilage was smooth and free from any significant morphological features. Some
small holes were found in the surface and cross-section of PVA hydrogel. The porous
structure of PVA hydrogel was observed clearly by Environmental scanning electron
microscopy (ESEM). In unconfined compression tests, the compression modulus of
articular cartilage was higher than that of PVA hydrogel. In the creep tests, the strain
value of articular cartilage was lower than that of PVA hydrogel all the time. It is
indicated that the microstructure of each material has a great influence on their
biphasic property which related to their mechanical behavior. |
