Micromechanic models for manufacturing quality prediction of cantula fiber-reinforced nHA/magnesium/shellac as biomaterial composites

Abstract The novelty of this study lies in the integration of cantula fibers (CaFs), natural fibers known for their high mechanical strength and eco-friendly properties, into a biodegradable composite system (Mg/nHA/shellac) designed for potential biomedical applications, particularly bone screws. This research evaluates the tensile strength and elastic modulus of the composite through experimental testing and micromechanical modeling, establishing key benchmarks for assessing the biocomposite performance prior to further characterization. The significance of this work is underscored by the increasing need for sustainable and biodegradable biomaterials that can replace conventional implants, thereby reducing environmental impact while enhancing biocompatibility. Experimental findings demonstrate that the incorporation of CaFs significantly improves both the tensile strength and elastic modulus as the fiber content increases. Comparative analysis shows that the Bowyer–Bader model most accurately predicts the tensile strength, while the Cox–Krenchel model offers the best prediction for elastic modulus. However, discrepancies observed between theoretical and experimental results highlight the anisotropic nature of CaFs and the complex interactions within the composite matrix. These insights offer structural optimization efforts on natural fiber-reinforced biocomposites. The outcome of this study advances the development of cost-effective, environmentally sustainable biomaterials with enhanced mechanical performance for biomedical applications.