PrintSummary
Biomaterials and smart materials are two of the four advanced materials that we discussed in Lesson 1 of this course. Unlike the classical classifications of materials (metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites), advanced materials are defined by their function, i.e., what role that they serve. Biomaterials can be metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, or combinations of these, that are used inside the body. They can serve structural and/or functional purposes within the body. Of course, an important consideration is how bio-compatible the material is, which determines whether the material can be used, where in the body, and the useful lifetime of the material. Smart materials can be metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, or combinations of these, that mimic life. These materials 'respond to stimuli'.
Reminder - Complete all of the Lesson 11 tasks!
You have reached the end of Lesson 11! Double-check the to-do list on the Overview page to make sure you have completed all of the activities listed there before you begin Lesson 12.