Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Biomaterials is one of the most rapidly expanding technological fields of recent decades. It covers the range of materials that are designed to interact with biological systems for a medical purpose and includes metals, ceramics, polymers and composites; both naturally derived and man-made. This unit also covers the events that occur when a foreign material is placed in contact with living tissues. From total organ/joint replacement to wound dressings, dental repairs and controlled drug release systems, almost every human being on earth is exposed to biomaterials during their lifetime.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 core unit in the Biomedical Engineering major sequence
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe the properties and behaviour of the four classes of biomaterials; (2) explain how the human body responds to an implanted biomaterial; (3) assess biomaterials for biocompatibility; (4) describe the regulatory process to have a new material approved for use; (5) propose biomaterials for specific applications; and (6) communicate effectively with the medical community about biomaterials.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) individual project; (2) group lab reports; and (3) final examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Elena Pardo
Unit rules
Prerequisites
MECH2002 Engineering Materials 2 (ID 8063)
and Enrolment in
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) or an associated Combined Degree
Incompatibility
BMEG4002 Biomaterials (ID 6298)
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
practical classes and laboratories classes: 2 hours per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.