After successful completion of the course, students are able to describe and explain experimental methods for structural and mechanical characterization of biological tisses. Students will further be able to describe and explain the most important state-of-the-art instruments used for such characterization as well as details on sample preparation, data analysis and potential sources for errors and/or artefacts.

The following techniques will be explained in terms of measurement principles and common data analysis procedures:

• Introduction and Macromechanical tests
• Micro- and Nanoindentation (conventional and AFM-based), Reference point microindentation, techniques, instrumentation, measurements, contact mechanics and resulting analysis techniques, pitfalls and problems
• Atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging modes, force mode (indentation, force spectroscopy mode) and combination with mechanical testing and sample preparation considerations for AFM experiments
• Scanning electron microscopy, review of measurement principle, secondary electron imaging mode, backscattered imaging mode and quantitative backscattered imaging mode
• Focused Ion Beam milling of hard tissue structures and theory, current research, limitations and challenges
• Miniature and micro-mechanical tests of biological tissues
• Micro-computed tomography, morphological parameters, porosity, crack propagation
• Small angle x-ray scattering, principles, measurement of bone hydroxyapatite crystal T-parameter, collagen banding and collagen strain measurement during tensile loading
• Raman-spectroscopy & FTIR, measurement principles and application to bone
• Polarized light microscopy, Second harmonic generation, Quantitative polarized light microscopy and collagen orientation

Lecture supported by digital presentations; discussion of case studies

Oral exam at the end of the term or further along the line on appointment. Estimated duration: … minutes