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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Biomaterials
Reference EN3607 Version 2
Created August 2021 SCQF Level SCQF 9
Approved March 2018 SCQF Points 15
Amended August 2021 ECTS Points 7.5

Aims of Module
To develop an understanding of the properties of natural and synthetic materials used in contact with biological systems and its effect. To develop an understanding of engineering principle materials in context of its applications in therapeutic, prosthetic, microdevice and diagnostic context.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Critically evaluate the mechanical behaviour of biological tissues and synthetic materials (such as polymer, ceramics, metals) under static and dynamic conditions.
2 Identify and understand the degradation of the materils in biological environment, reaction of body to foreign materials and concepts of bioactive/bioinert materials.
3 Draw on range of biomaterial properties, mechanical theories, manufacturing processes and biological constraints in designing biomedical engineering related products such as implants, prostheses and devices.

Indicative Module Content
1. Properties of materials, specific to biological (bone, soft tissues) and non-biological (metals, plastics, ceramics); 2. Mechanical testing (static and dynamic testing, stress-strain curves); 3. Design of replacement joint prostheses and choice of material / fitness for purpose based on the biomechanics of walking, running, jumping, and bending; 4. Biomaterials selection, manufacturing and characterisation for the dental, ophthalmological and tissue engineering applications.

Module Delivery
This is a lecture, laboratory and tutorial based full time course, with case study work, plus private study and discussion.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 30 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 120 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 150 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 50% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 3
Description: Coursework assessing ability to plan and test engineering materials for measuring a range of properties.
Component 2
Type: Examination Weighting: 50% Outcomes Assessed: 2
Description: Assessment of ability to design device, select the material and select the manufacturing process for biomedical applications.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The module has 2 components and to gain an overall pass a minimum D grade must be achieved in each component. The component weighting is as follows: C1 is worth 50% and C2 is worth 50%.
Examination:
Coursework: A B C D E F NS
A A A B B E E
B A B B C E E
C B B C C E E
D B C C D E E
E E E E E E F
F E E E F F F
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module None.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 RATNER, H. and SCHOEN, L., 2012. Biomaterial Science. 3rd ed. Academic Press.
2 TEMENOFF, M., 2008. Biomaterials. London: Pearson.
3 SCREEN, H.R.C. and TANNER, K.E., 2012. Structure and biomechanics of biological composites. In: NICOLAIS, L., BORZACCHIELLO, A. and LEE, S.M., eds. Encyclopedia of Composites. 2nd ed. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell. pp. 2928-2939.

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781