Master's Thesis

Ex vivo measurement of bone-implant micromotions in cementless total hip arthroplasty

This project aims to develop and validate a method for quantifying micromotions of cementless femoral stems using ex vivo mechanical compression testing combined with postoperative quantitative computed tomography (QCT) imaging. The resulting experimental data will serve as a basis for validating finite element simulations of bone-implant mechanics, ensuring accurate modelling of micromotion behaviour in THA.

Ex vivo measurement of bone-implant micromotions in cementless total hip arthroplasty (PDF, 225KB)

Bone Microscale-Level Properties in a Fish Model of Accelerated Aging

This project aims to examine the microscale structure-property relationship of a fish model of accelerated aging. For this, a combination of experimental techniques, namely microCT, Raman spectroscopy and nanoindentation, will be used to assess the morphology, composition and mechanical properties of fish vertebrae. Ultimately, the collected data will be compared with the known structure-property relationship of human bone tissue.

Bone Microscale-Level Properties in a Fish Model of Accelerated Aging (PDF, 222KB)

Assessment of cartilage tissue quality via Raman Spectroscopy

This project aims to quantify molecular changes in articular cartilage and determine their direct relationship with the tissue's mechanical performance. Raman spectroscopy and indentation will be used to analyze animal cartilage in native and degraded states, with spectral data calibrated against laboratory-grade cartilage compounds. Ultimately, specific Raman bands and ratios will be identified from these standards to directly link molecular matrix degradation to functional mechanical loss.

Assessment of cartilage tissue quality via Raman Spectroscopy (PDF, 330KB)

Multiaxial yield behaviour of human cortical bone

This project aims to quantify the yield properties of human cortical bone as a function of volume fraction and fabric. Representative volume elements will be extracted from microCT reconstructions and subjected to 17 monotonic load cases using a non-linear FE method. The results will be fitted to an existing transverse isotropic yield model and will inform future FE models of bone and bone-implant systems.

Multiaxial yield behaviour of human cortical bone (PDF, 244KB)