An Experimental Study on Physical, Micro-mechanical, and Statistical Analysis of Chitosan - Coated on Produced 3-D Braiding Structure for Artificial ACL Grafts with EtO Sterilized

Objective: It was the first study in the world on the micro-mechanical calculations, and statistical analysis of artificial ACL grafts, which were bio-composite materials. Methods: In this study; first of all, 3-D braiding preforms (raw samples) were produced with the 3-D braiding production method, which provided high - quality biomechanical performance values with 3 different technical yarns (reinforcement elements). Afterwards, bio-composite materials were produced by using the method of impregnation with chitosan (matrix element) and auxiliary biological chemicals depending on the bio-chemical recipe. Finally, all samples were sterilized with ethylene oxide sterilization. Results: Total volume of bio-composite materials (x10-3cm3) was T5>T3>T4>T6>T1>T2 respectively. Fiber - volume ratio of bio-composite materials (%) was T4>T6>T2>T5>T1>T3. Matrix - volume ratio of bio-composite materials (%) was T3>T1>T5>T2>T6>T4, respectively. Conclusion: The some process parameters such as yarn type, yarn count, or braiding construction (x2 factors) were significant, and effective on the total volume, the highest fiber -volume ratio, and the highest matrix - volume ratio of artificial ACL grafts.