Application of Scanning Probe Techniques in the Study of Biomaterials and Biomechanisms

Dear Colleagues,

Biomaterials are particular substances, generally thought for a medical purpose, specifically designed to interact with biological materials. A fundamental property of biomaterials is bio-compatibility, since they have to adapt and integrate biological materials. One of the strategies followed in the development of biomaterials is bio-inspiration; this means mimicking the natural properties of the biological element to make materials accepted by the body. The idea is to mimic nature not only in terms of chemical, but also physical properties. In particular, mechanical properties play a pivotal role in biomedical applications, and they can span over broad range values, e.g., soft (brain, liver, etc.) or hard (bones, teeth, etc.) tissue.

The characterization of the mechanical properties of a biomaterial and of its biological counterpart is fundamental. Biomechanics is not restricted to the definition of the sample elasticity or stiffness, since other aspects, such as bio-tribology or adhesion properties, are essential.

Scanning probe techniques gained a pivotal role in bio-mechanics, since they provide mechanical characterization, working in a physiological-like environment, spanning on a broad range of elastic moduli (from 10 to 109 Pa), or adhesion/traction forces (10-12 N to 10-7 N).

This Special Issue aims to highlight and discuss the modern trends of scanning probe techniques in biomechanical applications. 

It is my pleasure to invite you to submit a manuscript for this Special Issue. Full papers, communications, and reviews are all welcome.

Dr. Claudio Canale
Prof. Ornella Cavalleri
Guest Editors

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