Advancements in polymer composites as a pertinent biomaterial for hard tissue applications – A review

Abstract

The advancement of biomedical implants has undergone an accelerated rise in recent years due to many variables such as breakthroughs in manufacturing technology and a surge in demand due to an ageing population. Although they have drawbacks like higher elasticity modulus and stress shielding, metallic implants like titanium, magnesium, and stainless steel have historically been considered to be biomaterials for implants. Researchers have been motivated by these restrictions for a long time, leading them to hunt for alternatives. Several researchers have recommended using polymers and composites as alternatives to metal implants. Polymers have an advantage over metal implants for use as biomedical implants due to their lighter weight when compared to the latter. Different additives or fillers are added to polymers to enhance their mechanical qualities, increasing their strength and lowering their risk of failure. This article attempts to examine the conventional implant materials and how metal-polymer composites have taken their position in a variety of applications.