Acquisition of a Scanning Nanoindentation Testing System for Characterization of Bone Materials at the Nanometer Scale

University Of Memphis, Memphis TN

Investigators

Abstract

0076497 Rho. This award to the University of Memphis provides support for the acquisition of a scanning nanoindentation testing system for the characterization of bone materials at the nanoindentation scale. A scanning nanoindenter, which combines the load-displacement transducer of a nanoindenter with the image scanning capabilities of an atomic force microscope, will be used to determine the mechanical properties and image surface microstructure and topography of bone materials. It will constitute a major advance in our ability to understand bone tissue mechanics on a scale much closer to the cellular level. Knowledge of such mechanical properties and structural characteristics are a key step towards predicting the behavior of whole bone and determining the extent to which aging and disease processes alter the strength of bone. This new instrument will enhance the research infrastructure of the University of Memphis and will also serve as a focal point for the introduction of state-of-the-art techniques and instrumentation into several engineering courses. ***