Abstract
This thesis presents a groundbreaking exploration of the Hydroxyapatite (HA) coating derived from snail shells and Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) composite, delving into its mechanical properties, nanostructure analysis, and structural and biomedical engineering applications. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive approach, combining experimental and simulation-based methods to unveil unique insights. The study introduces the HA-PEEK composite, highlighting its potential in biomedical, but not limited to this field, due to its outstanding stiffness, strength, and resistance to failure. This introduction sets the stage for thoroughly investigating the material's capabilities and applications. The research employs a multifaceted methodology, combining experimental data from materials research papers, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulations using FEMAP FEA software, and advanced machine learning techniques, including the Physics-Informed Neural Network (PINN) model within the PyTorch framework. These approaches provide a nuanced understanding of the composite's mechanical attributes. Key findings include the material's capacity for elastic behaviour, demonstrated by a linear force-displacement curve, indicating its ability to return to its original shape after load removal. The velocity analysis emphasizes minimal vibration, while FEA results reveal a critical buckling load and the dominance of T1 translation, suggesting a propensity for failure in bending mode. The study positions the HA-PEEK composite as a versatile material for structural and biomedical applications. The nanostructure analysis of PEEK, African land giant snail shell powder, and sea snail shell powder unravels promising avenues for developing bioactive implant surfaces. The mechanical properties of the PEEK-Hydroxyapatite composite closely resembling cancellous bone underscore its potential in orthopaedic applications. This research lays the foundation for future endeavours in advanced materials for bone implants, offering a holistic understanding of the material's interaction with biological environments and its potential to enhance patient outcomes in orthopaedic surgery.
Keywords: Advanced Material Science; Biocompatibility; Hydroxyapatite; Machine learning; Nanocoatings; Nanoscale Biomaterials; Orthopedic Implant; Polyether ether ketone; Synthetic Bone Substitutes.