Mechanical properties

Strength

  • The load carrying capacity of a material
  • Rules of thumb:
    Strength: Material strength primarily dependent on composition, structure, porosity and elasticity
    Strength: Ca-P ceramics strong under compression and weak under torsion loads
    Strength: Ca-P cement compressive modulus stronger compared to Ha or TCP granules
    Strength: TCP quicker loss of mechanical strength compared to HA in vivo

Stiffness

  • The resistance to elastic deformation

Strain

  • The deformation of a material by a force acting on the material
  • Strain can be tensile or compressive (plastic or viscoelastic deformation)

Young’s Modulus (modulus of elasticity)

  • Unique property of a material; measure of a material to resist deformation and return to its original shape

 Creep

  • Permanent deformation under influence of mechanical stress

Strength

  • The load carrying capacity of a material 
Elastic modulus, compressive strength and tensile strength are highly dependent on the position of the body and the condition of the individual.11

Mechanical properties of bone vary with depending on load orientation with respect to the orientation of tissue (anisotropy) and the speed to which the load is applied (viscoelasticity).11