Computational Approach of the Cortical Bone Mechanical Behavior Based on an Elastic Viscoplastic Damageable Constitutive Model

Abstract

Bone mechanical behavior varies according to the mechanical loading to which it is subjected, and its response effectiveness mainly depends on its quality. Thus, measuring the indicators controlling the bone quality is required to assess its strength. Indeed, the Finite Element Method (FEM) provides a non-invasive tool to interpret bone quality. Therefore, this work coupled the FEM with a micromechanical law, aiming to provide an exhaustive description of the human bone mechanical behavior. Anisotropy, viscoplasticity and damage were introduced in the material behavior law and the damage evolution was plotted based on the applied loading. Then a sensitivity study was conducted to evaluate the effects of viscoplasticity and damage parameters on bone behavior. The obtained numerical results were in a good agreement with the previously reported experimental data and allowed to distinguish key parameters from non-significant ones. This new computational model provided a better understanding of the main parameters affecting bone behavior.