Investigating the texture and physical properties of biocompatible materials using a Texture Analyser

The field of medical research is constantly evolving, with advancements in technology leading to the development of novel materials for medical applications. Biocompatible materials, in particular, have gained significant attention due to their ability to interact safely with living tissues. They are widely used in various medical applications such as implants, scaffolds for tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, and prosthetics. These materials are designed to mimic the properties of natural tissues, ensuring optimal integration with the human body.

The texture and physical properties of these materials play a crucial role in their effectiveness and compatibility with the human body. Therefore, it becomes imperative to investigate and evaluate these properties using advanced techniques and scientific instruments such as a Texture Analyser.

Texture analysis is a technique used to measure and quantitatively analyse the physical properties of materials based on their texture. It involves applying controlled forces to the material and recording the resulting responses. In the context of biocompatible materials, a Texture Analyser can provide valuable insights into their viscoelastic behaviour, adhesion, and overall textural characteristics.

The texture analyser consists of a probe, which applies controlled forces to the material, and a load cell, which measures the response. By analysing the force-displacement or force-time curve, various texture parameters can be determined. These parameters include hardness, mechanical strength, elasticity, stickiness, and brittleness. Each parameter contributes to the overall understanding of the material's behaviour and can be correlated to its performance in medical applications.

Stable Micro Systems range of Texture Analysers

Texture analysis has found widespread applications in medical research, particularly in the development and evaluation of biocompatible materials. By analysing the texture of these materials, researchers can assess their suitability for specific medical applications. For example, in the field of tissue engineering, the Texture Analyser can determine the scaffolds' mechanical properties that promote cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation. In the case of drug delivery systems, the Texture Analyser can evaluate the release kinetics of drugs from implantable devices. By characterising the texture of these devices, researchers can optimise their design to ensure controlled and sustained drug release. 

Typical research examples of how a Texture Analyser has been used in this field:

• Functionalization of carbopol with NVP for designing antibiotic drug loaded hydrogel dressings for better wound management
• Guided bone regeneration by the development of alendronate sodium loaded in-situ gel and membrane formulations
• Facile preparation of hydrogel glue with high strength and antibacterial activity from physically linked network
• Production of food-grade microcarriers based on by-products from the food industry to facilitate the expansion of bovine skeletal muscle satellite cells for cultured meat production
• Starch-based films doped with porphyrinoid photosensitizers for active skin wound healing
• Dense lamellar scaffold based on collagen, silk fibroin and polyethylene glycol 400 produced by a novel plastic compression technique
• Characterization and assessment of new fibrillar collagen inks and bioinks for 3D printing and bioprinting
• Hydroxypropyl Cellulose/Pluronic-Based Composite Hydrogels as Biodegradable Mucoadhesive Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering
• Applying quality by design approach for the determination of potent paclitaxel loaded poly (lactic acid) based implants for localized tumor drug delivery

Texture analysis offers several advantages over traditional testing methods. It provides a quantitative and objective assessment of material properties, eliminating subjective bias. Additionally, the technique can be easily standardised, ensuring reproducibility across different laboratories and studies.

Learn more about what other tests material properties a Texture Analyser can measure.

Find out more about other tests that can be performed in materials testing.

Why not take a look at our case studies to see typical examples of how industry leaders are already using the Texture Analyser to get ahead of the competition.

Request a demonstration of any of our instruments.  Let us know, we’d be happy to show you how things work.

There is a Texture Analysis test for virtually any physical property. Contact Stable Micro Systems today to learn more about our full range of solutions.

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For more information on how to measure texture, please visit the Texture Analysis Properties section on our website.

The TA.XTplusC texture analyser is part of a family of texture analysis instruments and equipment from Stable Micro Systems. An extensive portfolio of specialist attachments is available to measure and analyse the textural properties of a huge range of food products. Our technical experts can also custom design instrument fixtures according to individual specifications.

No-one understands texture analysis like we do!

Get in touch to discuss your specific test requirements