SIM-AM 2025

Characterizing the elasticity and failure of hydroxyapatite TPMS scaffolds by a combination of compression testing, ultrasonography, and numerical models based on micro-CT

  • VENA, PASQUALE (Politecnico di Milano)
  • D'Andrea, Luca (Politecnico di Milano)

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This study investigates the mechanical properties of ceramic scaffolds with Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) geometries, specifically Diamond, Gyroid, and I-graph wrapped package-graph (IWP), using Vat Photopolymerization (VPP). The scaffolds were characterized micro-CT-based finite element models [1] validated by comparing predictions with ultrasound and compression tests [2]. The findings revealed that VPP can accurately print complex TPMS structures, although some discrepancies between designed and printed geometries were noted, particularly in areas with thinner walls. The mechanical characterization showed that the IWP scaffolds exhibited the highest specific strength, while Diamond scaffolds had the lowest. The ultrasound method combined with numerical homogenization proved effective for determining the elastic modulus, which ranged from 12 GPa to 32 GPa. Compression tests indicated that the failure mechanisms and fracture patterns varied among the different TPMS geometries, with Diamond and IWP showing predictable patterns based on their structural features. The study concludes that while VPP is feasible for creating complex HAP scaffolds, further quantitative analysis of printing fidelity is necessary to optimize mechanical performance for broader applications in bone tissue engineering.