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Subject-specific Musculoskeletal Model for Studying Bone Strain During Dynamic Motion
Published on: April 11, 2018
Micro-finite element simulation of trabecular-bone post-yield behaviour--effects of material model, element size and
E Verhulp1, B Van Rietbergen, R Muller
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
Summary
Nonlinear micro-finite element (micro-FE) models are crucial for understanding bone failure. This study found that while element size had minimal impact, element type and material models significantly affected predictions, yet none accurately captured post-yield behavior in trabecular bone.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Materials Science
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Micro-finite element (micro-FE) analysis is a standard for evaluating trabecular bone mechanical properties.
- The accuracy of linear micro-FE models is established, but nonlinear models for bone failure are less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the accuracy of nonlinear micro-FE models in simulating trabecular bone failure.
- To investigate the influence of element size, element type, and material models on predicted post-yield behavior.
Main Methods:
- A trabecular bone specimen was subjected to compression beyond its yield point.
- Simulations were performed using various micro-FE meshes (element sizes and types) and cortical bone material models.
- Experimental and simulation results were compared.
Main Results:
- Decreasing element size from 80 to 40 µm had minimal effect on post-yield behavior predictions.
- Element type and material model choice significantly impacted simulation outcomes.
- No tested cortical bone material models accurately predicted the load-displacement curve's post-yield descent.
Conclusions:
- Current nonlinear micro-FE models and material models require refinement for accurate trabecular bone failure simulation.
- Further research is needed to develop models that capture the complex post-yield mechanical response of trabecular bone.
