Local piezoelectric polarization of human cortical bone as a function of stress frequency

Abstract

Using a suitable model for the orientation of the collagen fibrils in the osteon system, the piezoelectric constants of the mineralized fibril, including the groundsubstance in dried bone can be calculated from approximately local charge measurements. These frequency-dependent constants are substantially greater than those determined by integrating the charge of areas greater that the osteon system. The measured frequency response of the piezoelectric effect can be described by a Poynting-Thomson model. So it seems very likely that the dielectric displacement is proportional to the strain, independent of deformation frequency.