Thin Films for Biomedical Applications

In this chapter, thin film materials for biomedical applications, known as biomaterials, have been discussed. Biomaterials can be classified according to the original material of synthesis and include metal and metal alloys, polymers, composites, and ceramic biomaterials. These classes of biomaterials have been discussed in detail in the chapter with some of the examples provided. Metallic/alloy materials include Ti-based, stainless steel, and cobalt-based and magnesium-based alloys. Ceramics for biomedical applications, also known as bio-ceramics, are classified into three categories: bioinert, bio-resorbable, and bioactive materials. Polymeric biomaterials, known as biopolymers, such as poly(lactic) acid (PLA) are extensively used in manufacturing of disposable medical components and supplies. Composite materials have also been used as biomaterials and can be either biodegradable or non-biodegradable. Thin film processing can be used to synthesise various thin film biomaterials, and some of these materials have been discussed in this chapter. In addition, the specific applications of thin films in human body treatments have been discussed. The chapter has also highlighted that the future focus will be on the development of self-healing and hybrid thin film materials for biomedical applications.