One method of fabricating implantable biomaterials is to utilize biologically derived, chemically modified tissues to form constructs that are both biocompatible and remodelable. Rigorous mechanical characterization is a necessary component in material evaluation to ensure that the constructs will withstand in vivo loading. In this study we performed an in-depth biaxial mechanical and quantitat...

Despite continued progress in the treatment of aortic valve (AV) disease, current treatments continue to be challenged to consistently restore AV function for extended durations. Improved approaches for AV repair and replacement rests upon our ability to more fully comprehend and simulate AV function. While the elastic behavior the AV leaflet (AVL) has been previously investigated, time-depende...

Three test methods, uniaxial bias extension, biaxial and picture frame tests are used to characterise the shear behaviour of dry woven fabric during draping. The deformation of the bias extension and biaxial specimens is measured from images of a central gauge section. The forces applied to the material are resolved into forces along and parallel to the tow directions. The deformation of the ma...

We designed a loading device that is capable of applying uniaxial or biaxial mechanical strain to a tissue engineered biocomposites fabricated for transplantation. While the device primarily functions as a bioreactor that mimics the native mechanical strains, it is also outfitted with a load cell for providing force feedback or mechanical testing of the constructs. The device subjects engineere...