Bone, Mechanical Testing of
M.P. Horan,
Y.H. An,
M.P. Horan
Medical University of South Carolina, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery And College of Medicine, Charleston, South Carolina
Search for more papers by this authorY.H. An
Medical University of South Carolina, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Charleston, South Carolina
Clemson University, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson, South Carolina
Search for more papers by this authorM.P. Horan,
Y.H. An,
M.P. Horan
Medical University of South Carolina, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery And College of Medicine, Charleston, South Carolina
Search for more papers by this authorY.H. An
Medical University of South Carolina, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Charleston, South Carolina
Clemson University, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson, South Carolina
Search for more papers by this authorFirst published: 14 April 2006
Abstract
Bone is a complex heterogeneous material or structure that in the animal or human body serves the function of support, movement and protection, body mineral homeostasis, and hematopoesis. The mechanical properties of bone, expressed as strength, stiffness or elastic modulus, depend on its hierarchical structure at the macro, micro, sub-micro, nano and sub-nano levels. There are numerous methods for testing the mechanical properties of bone at its different structural levels. A laboratory equipped with basic tools, devices, and mechanical testing machines is essential for mechanical testing of bone. This chapter presents basic concepts and principles of bone biomechanics and introduces basic methodologies of mechanical testing of bone at the macro level. The importance and basic design of testing fixtures are included. Common errors and precautions for mechanical testing of bone are also discussed.
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