RT journal article
T1 Biocomposite-Based Biomimetic Plate for Alternative Fixation of Proximal Humerus Fractures
A1 Suffo Pino, Miguel
A1 Fernández-Illescas, Irene
A1 Simonet Morales, Ana María
A1 Pérez Muñoz, Celia
A1 Andrés Cano, Pablo
A2 Anatomía y Embriología Humana
A2 BiomedicinaBiotecnología y Salud Pública
A2 Ingeniería Mecánica y Diseño Industrial
A2 Química Orgánica
K1 proximal humerus fractures
K1 biocomposite implants
K1 patient-specific implants
K1 engineering-surgical collaboration
K1 Sugarcane by-products (BCF)
K1 biocompatibility
AB Proximal humerus fractures are frequent injuries that often require internal fixation. Conventional metallic plates, however, present significant drawbacks such as corrosion, secondary removal surgeries, and adverse reactions in patients with metal hypersensitivity. This study evaluates biocomposite plates fabricated from polylactic acid (PLA) andpolyvinyl alcohol (PVA), reinforced with hydroxyapatite (HA) derived from sugar industryby-products (BCF) at 10% and 20% concentrations. These composites are compatible withboth injection molding and 3D printing, enabling the design of patient-specific implants.Characterization by SEM, FTIR, XRD, and DSC confirmed that BCF incorporation enhancesstrength, stiffness, osteoconductivity, and biocompatibility. Mechanical testing showedthat PVA/BCF exhibited greater tensile strength and stiffness, suggesting suitability forload-bearing applications, though their water solubility restricts use in humid environments and prevents filament-based 3D printing. PLA/BCF composites demonstratedbetter processability, favorable mechanical performance, and compatibility with both manufacturing routes. Finite element analysis highlighted the importance of plate–humeruscontact in stress distribution and fixation stability. Compared with non-biodegradablethermoplastics such as PEI and PEEK, PLA/BCF and PVA/BCF offer the additional advantage of controlled biodegradation, reducing the need for secondary surgeries. Cellviability assays confirmed cytocompatibility, with optimal outcomes at 10% BCF in PVAand 20% in PLA. These results position PLA/BCF and PVA/BCF as sustainable, patienttailored alternatives to metallic implants, combining adequate mechanical support withbone regeneration potential.
PB MDPI
SN 2313-7673
YR 2025
FD 2025-10
LK http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39333
UL http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39333
LA eng
DS Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Cádiz
RD 05-nov-2026