Evaluating the lattice structures performance under mechanical loading for the application of mandible scaffolds: An experimental study

Mandible reconstruction stands as a significant area with an advancement technology associated with computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) techniques. These technologies have potential to overcome of lattice structures and enhance scaffold quality. Recently, Osteosynthesis methods have evolved, and influenced for biomaterial selection and manufacturing methodologies for light weight implants. This study investigates the mechanical strength of lattice structures namely diamond, kelvin, and gyroid fabricated using multi-material 3D-printing. The mechanical performance of 3D- printed lightweight lattice structures for mandibular defects were evaluated by experimental method. The design of experiments was developed by varying thickness of lattices and its types. These experimental design results on variation of porosity of lattice structures from 15 % to 70% and surface area to volume ratio from 1 to 17. The experimental study of multi-material lattices structures results high flexural strength compared with compressive and tensile. However, the adhesion breakage of lattices structures was observed in compression and tensile tests. The gyroid lattices structures with least thickness of 1.5 mm, porosity of higher porosity and surface area to volume ratio results optimum mechanical strength for scaffold applications. Tensile, compression, and flexural strengths of 15 MPa, 21 MPa, and 45 MPa were attained by the gyroid 1.5 mm lattice thickness specimen with porosities of 20%, 67%, and 50%, respectively. Finite element analysis using tensile, compression, and flexural modulus values revealed a 32% variation when compared with experimental results.