Research Information System
Uzun G. (Executive), Bayram B. S., Korkut İ., Tekiner Z.
Project Supported by Higher Education Institutions, BAP Research Project, 2024 - 2025
Within the scope of this project, the development of composite materials that are biomechanically compatible, biocompatible, and possess high mechanical performance for use in the surgical treatment of spinal deformities was aimed. Accordingly, the study focused on dynamic stabilization systems that can eliminate complications such as motion restriction and adjacent segment disease caused by conventional rigid fusion systems. During the material development phase, extensive production and optimization studies were conducted on polymer matrix–metal-reinforced biocomposites. Using extrusion, injection molding, and additive manufacturing (3D printing) techniques, PLA/316L stainless steel composites were produced and optimized to achieve high machinability, superior surface quality, and microstructural homogeneity. Innovative approaches such as trochoidal milling and hybrid cutting force modeling were utilized to ensure high precision in mold and prototype manufacturing. The produced composites were mechanically characterized through tensile, compression, and impact tests. Based on Taguchi statistical optimization, composites containing 15% stainless steel reinforcement exhibited tensile strengths of 94 MPa and compressive strengths of 102 MPa, demonstrating mechanical properties consistent with those required for spinal biomechanics. Furthermore, in vitro biocompatibility tests performed under 72-hour cell culture conditions showed over 90% cell viability, confirming the absence of cytotoxic effects. The results revealed that the developed composite systems exhibit high mechanical strength, excellent biocompatibility, and elastic behavior close to spinal motion characteristics. In this respect, the study provides a scientific and technological foundation for the design of dynamically stabilized, load-sharing, and biomechanically optimized implant systems as an alternative to rigid fusion techniques.