Alisha Bhatt

Research Outline

Multi-scale additive manufactured embedded sensors for smart implants. The concept of Nanoengineering systems enables a variety of applications for instance in the health and energy sector. Additive manufacturing (AM) also known as 3D printing describes a process where materials are joined under computational control to create a three-dimensional object. This is typically using a layer by layer approach. High resolution is a key factor in terms of 3D printing quality. Using a very fine nozzle ink is numerically ejected to create a high-resolution structure created by layering. The structure produced is precise down to sub micrometres. These precision capabilities allow printing of new devices. For instance, the printing of sensors which are used in numerous fields like healthcare. This PhD project focuses on using the concept of Nanoscale and translating this knowledge to produce printing on a Macro scale. This project considers printing onto a macro scaled AM joint replacement. This makes the implants smart as health specialist can track patient’s condition. Traditional titanium additive manufacturing would be used to make the implant. However, the process would be interrupted to print sensors using Nano-AM techniques, resulting in embedded sensors. In situ synchrotron imaging would be used to optimise the process and ensure accurate printing and ensure final properties are appropriate.