posted on 2010-10-26, 10:00authored byK. Xiao, K.W. Dalgarno, D.J. Wood, Ruth Goodridge, C. Ohtsuki
This paper develops an indirect selective laser sintering (SLS) processing route for
apatite–wollastonite (A–W) glass–ceramic, and shows that the processing route, which can
create porous three-dimensional products suitable for bone implants or scaffolds, does not
affect the excellent mechanical and biological properties of the glass–ceramic. ‘Green parts’
with fine integrity and well-defined shape have been produced from glass particles of singlesize
range or mixed-size ranges with acrylic binder in various ratios by weight. A subsequent
heat treatment process has been developed to optimize the crystallization process, and an
infiltration process has been explored to enhance mechanical strength. Three-point bending
test results show flexural strengths of up to 102MPa, dependent on porosity, and simulated
body fluid (SBF) tests show that the laser sintered porous A–W has comparable biological
properties to that of conventionally produced A–W.
History
School
Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering
Citation
XIAO, K...et al., 2008. Indirect selective laser sintering of apatite–wollostonite glass–ceramic. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of Engineering in Medicine, 222(7), pp. 1107-1114.