The first in-vitro biocompatibility tests of VBN Component’s 3D-printed metal Vibenite® 350 have been conducted within the competence centre AM4life. The initial results show that bone-like cells spread and proliferate on the material. These findings further encourage a more in-depth examination of the material’s biocompatibility.

The Vibenite® 350 is both wear- and corrosive resistant and could be suited as an implant material where wear resistance is key, such as human joints. Vibenite® 350 is a cobalt-free material that could replace traditional materials that are not wear-resistant. Additionally, it could be 3D-printed with complex structures adapted to optimise bone cell growth.

The tests were done at Assistant Professor Gry Hulsart Billström’s Translational Bioprinting Group at Uppsala University, as part of a cooperation with AM4Life Director Professor Cecilia Persson and members of the Tribomaterials Group at Uppsala University, PhD Student Vidhiaza Leviandhika and Professor Urban Wiklund.

The exploration of Vibenite® 350 will be continued in the AM4Life competence centre with further biological and tribological tests.

• We are extremely happy of these results and the good cooperation in the AM4life competence centre. When different research fields meet, the greatest results are achieved. But everything relies on good cooperations and the world class science we have in this centre, says Ulrik Beste, CTO of VBN Components AB.

Author: Andy Cormack