Alumina Ceramics: Biomedical and Clinical Applications

Alumina ceramics are a leading biomaterial used for specialist medical applications such as bionic implants and tissue engineering and the only biomaterial commercially viable for use as bearings for orthopaedic hip replacements. In addition, because of its unique combination of extreme wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and low manufacturing cost, Alumina is the dominant wear-resistant ceramic used in the mining industry today. Alumina ceramics: biomedical and industrial applications examines the extraordinary material, Alumina, and its use in biomedicine and industry.

Chapters in part 1 discuss the fundamentals of Alumina Ceramics. Chapters in part 2 look at the various industrial applications whilst the final set of chapters examines a variety of medical applications.

This book is an invaluable and unique resource for researchers, clinical professionals, engineers, advanced level students wishing to expand their knowledge on this important material.

Provides a unique and thorough review of Alumina ceramicsWritten by one of the world’s leading experts in bioceramics and advanced industrial ceramics, especially aluminaTargeted to researchers in the materials, clinical, and dental fieldsEnables the non-expert to be able to get an overview of the underlying alumina technology, the major challenges, the major successes, and future directions

Section 1. Alumina as a Ceramic 1. Introduction 2. Bauxite 3. Refining and Synthesis of Alumina 4. Properties and Processing of Alumina Ceramics

Section 2. Alumina in Biomedical Engineering 5. Overview of Alumina in Biomedical Engineering 6. Alumina Bearings in Orthopaedics. Origin and Evolution 7. Alumina Bearings in Orthopaedics. Present and Future 8. Alumina in Bionic Feedthroughs. The Pacemaker 9. Alumina in Bionic Feedthroughs. The Bionic Ear 10. Alumina in Bionic Feedthroughs. The Bionic Eye, and the Future 11. Alumina in Lightweight Body Armor

Section 3. Alumina as an Industrial Ceramic 12. Alumina as an Industrial Wear and Corrosion Resistant Ceramic 13. Alumina as an Electrical Insulator 14. Alumina in Electrical Feedthroughs 15. Alumina: Refractory, and Other Specialised Industrial Uses 16. Alumina: The Future