Creation of Scaffolds for Alveolar Bone Regeneration Using 3D Printing and Computational Simulations

This project focuses on the development and validation of a numerical-experimental process for designing optimized porous scaffolds for alveolar bone regeneration, utilizing additive manufacturing and computational modeling. The primary goal is to identify and optimize Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) structures suitable for dental tissue engineering. The methodology involves an exhaustive review of TPMS geometries, biodegradable polymeric materials, and additive manufacturing techniques like FDM. Various structures will be geometrically modeled using CAD software, varying morphology and properties to evaluate mechanical performance. Subsequently, these geometries will undergo advanced simulations using the Finite Element Method (FEA) in Ansys Workbench under static and dynamic conditions relevant to bone tissue. Designs exhibiting superior mechanical performance will be manufactured using FDM 3D printing with medical-grade biocompatible polymer filaments. Finally, the mechanical properties of the printed scaffolds will be experimentally validated through compression testing, comparing these results with computational predictions to validate the clinical applicability of the optimized structures in bone regeneration.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To develop and validate a comprehensive process combining 3D printing and computational simulations for creating porous scaffolds based on Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) structures, aiming to optimize their design for alveolar bone regeneration.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Computer aided diagnosis<br/>Biomedical technologies and devices<br/>Biomechanics and movement analysis