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Much of the new composite aerospace materials, especally FDA approved thermoplastic resins, have a bright future for use in orthopedics. For example, if you look closely at the x-ray above, you can spot a metal bone screw holding together a fracture. If that orthopedic insert could be composite, it would not appear on the x-ray, and the doctor could more easily determine the healing of the injury. Other advantages of composite medical inserts include higher lubricity (less pain/discomfort) and less risk of allergies (a surprisingly large population is allergic to nickle).
With the nearby National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR), a leading composite material research institute, there is ample space for sharing of ideas and technology.
More info:
The Wichita Eagle
Aerospace Composites
Photo Credit: joebeone via flicker
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