| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2023 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Biological Materials Science
|
| Presentation Title |
Unraveling the Mystery of Mammalian Enamel Microstructure |
| Author(s) |
Carli Marsico, Cameron Renteria, Jack Grimm, Donna P Guillen, Susana Estrada, Julians Fernández-Arteaga, E. Alex Ossa, Dwayne D. Arola |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Dwayne D. Arola |
| Abstract Scope |
The outstanding damage-tolerance of tooth enamel, a highly mineralized bio-composite, is well documented and could inspire the design of new engineered materials. For mammals, the enamel supports the dietary requirements and many other functions involved in survival. From a materials design perspective, enamel is an interesting model for bioinspiration because it is acellular and does not remodel, yet it endures the largest stresses of all biological tissues and resists fracture over decades of function. Experiments suggest that the decussated microstructure is the largest contributor to its fracture resistance. To draw inspiration from this material, here we present findings on the complex 3-D microstructural patterns exhibited by the enamel of teeth from selected mammals. The morphology of individual rods, clusters of rods, and decussation bands are characterized through electron microscopy and high-resolution imaging performed via synchrotron tomography. We provide new understanding on the intricacies of enamel microstructure for the first time. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Biomaterials, Characterization, Composites |