Effects of different fillers on hydrogels for application as tissue-substitute materials for computed tomography phantoms

Abstract Composite hydrogels of gelatine and six different cost-effective fillers, with a concentration of 0.08 g/ml, are studied as potential tissue-substitute materials for computed tomography phantoms. Distilled water and glycerol (100:0 and 70:30) are employed as solvents. The capability to mimic different body tissues is tested at tube voltages from 70 to 120 kVp. The results indicate that the composites successfully mimic some soft tissues (liver, heart and muscles) as well as trabecular bones. Glass microbubbles composites show a potential to substitute fat and lung tissues but some additional filler and glycerol content optimization is required. The mechanical performance of the composites with respect to their practical implementation is evaluated by means of Young’s modulus, gel strength, and work of deformation.