STTR Phase II: Variable Diameter Fiber Reinforced Biopolymers for Minimally Invasive Orthopedic Implants

The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase II project will develop a new ceramic fiber technology for reinforcing injectable bioplastics used in orthopaedic applications. The main goal of this research project is to achieve a significant increase in strength and stability of the proposed product over current injectable polymer based biomaterials through a combination of variable diameter fibers and new cements. The proposed product would result in the enablement of new surgical techniques. In addition, the research might be applicable to injection molding of mass produced plastics which could significantly strengthen many products.