Actuation of Ferromagnetic Fibre Networks to Improve Implant Longevity

This project (£1.5 million) is funded by the European Research Council. Fibre network materials have potential for use as actuators (devices in which controlled physical motion or force is triggered by an external signal or stimulus).

This effect is being explored for magnetically active layers on the surface of prosthetic implants, which deform elastically on application of a magnetic field, to deliver local strain in in-growing bone tissue. The design draws on the concepts of strain-regulated bone remodeling and modeling. The project features close collaboration between the Department of Engineering and the Division of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery.