Imaged-based simulation for the mechanical characterization of scaffolds

Recent development of high resolution imaging modalities such as Micro-CT allow realistic porous structures to be straightforwardly and accurately scanned with sub-micron image resolutions possible on some commercially available systems. Combined with novel meshing techniques, these imaging techniques allow for robust and rapid conversion of the 3D scan data into finite element and finite volume meshes which can straightforwardly be used to characterize the response [1]. In addition, various image processing tools allow for interesting sensitivity analyses to be carried out helping to elucidate relationships between key architectural parameters, such as rib thickness, and bulk properties. A number of studies will be shown which demonstrate the ease with which fidelic models of the complex micro-architectures of bio-scaffolds can be generated.