ABSTRACT
Composite materials are solids which contain two or more distinct constituent materials or phases, on a scale larger than the atomic. This chapter explores fundamentals of composite materials and their applications in biomaterials. Mechanical properties of many composite materials depend on structure in a complex way; however, for some structures, the prediction of properties is relatively simple. Triclinic modulus elements such as C2311, known as cross-coupling constants, have the effect of producing a shear stress in response to a uniaxial strain; this is undesirable in many applications. Particle reinforcement has been used to improve the properties of bone cement. Fibers incorporated in a polymer matrix increase the stiffness, strength, fatigue life, and other properties. Carbon fibers have been incorporated in the high-density polyethylene used in total knee replacements. Metals are currently used in bone plates for immobilizing fractures and in the femoral component of total hip replacements.
