The microstructure of bone tissue is a significant factor in determining its mechanical properties. Increased knowledge regarding mechanical properties can help predict the risk of fracture. A theory which uses mathematical models to predict the moduli of cortical bone given its porosity was applied to data obtained at Tufts University. Test grips were designed to load the 2 cm cubic cannon bone samples in tension and shear. Porosity was measured using Archimedes' technique and Poisson's ratio was determined using strain gages during compression testing. Results show a strong relationship between porosity and elastic modulus in bone with porosity equal or greater than twenty percent and a weak correlation at porosities lower than twenty percent.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Clark, Matthew David
• Walsh, Ashley Field
• Davis, Nicole Pamela

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 03D102M

Advisor

• Savilonis, Brian James

Year

• 2003

Date created

• 2003-01-01

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biomedical Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright