Nanomaterial-reinforced composites for biomedical implant applications: a mini-review

There is heavy demand for suitable implant materials with improved mechanical and biological properties. Classically, the demand was catered by conventional materials such as metals, alloys and polymer-based materials. Recently, nanomaterial-reinforced composites have played a significant role in replacing conventional materials due to their excellent properties such as biocompatibility, bioactivity, high strength-to-weight ratio, long life, corrosion and wear resistance and tailorability. Herein, the authors carried out a systematic focus review of the role of nanoparticles in the form of composite materials for advancements in orthopedic implants. Several nanomaterial-based reinforcements have been reviewed with various matrix materials, including metals, alloys, ceramics, composites and polymers, for biomedical implant applications. Moreover, the improved biological properties, mechanical properties and other functionalities such as infection resistance, drug delivery at the target, sensing and detection of bone diseases and corrosion and wear resistance are elaborated. At last, a particular focus has been given to the unresolved challenges in orthopedic implant development.