Critical Parameters for the Properties of Poly (<scp>l</scp>‐Lactic Acid) Mixed‐Braided Stent: Monofilaments Diameter and Friction Coefficient

ABSTRACT Balancing the ideal radial supporting performance with flexibility in polymer stents has always been a significant challenge, and a potential solution to which is provided by the mixed‐braided stents. However, the principles of mechanics and design advantages are yet ambiguous. This study aims to establish a correlation between radial supporting performance and structural morphologies of mixed‐braided stents in the compression process. First, this study establishes a computational framework, which takes into account the different material properties of thick and thin monofilaments as well as actual friction coefficients. Second, this study simulates the crimping process of different mixed‐braided stents to find out the relationship between radial supporting performance and structural morphologies. Finally, by changing the friction coefficient in the simulation model, the influence of friction coefficient on the crimping process of the stents is explored. The result provides a reference for the structural design of mixed‐braided stents: significant differences in diameter and friction coefficient can lead to the instability of the stent. Specifically, as the friction coefficient increases from 0.12 to 0.20, the radial stiffness increases from 0.32 to 0.69 N/mm 2 , which is an increase of 115%. However, the stability of the stent decreases simultaneously. Meanwhile, the COF and stability of the stent have declined.