Biotribology: Friction, Wear and Lubrication in Biological Systems

Biotribology combines biology, biomechanics and tribology to study the mechanics of living organisms and how they interact with external surfaces. It is the study of how friction affects physiological processes, such as the rubbing of bones in a joint or the wearing down of dental enamel while chewing. This field of study is crucial for understanding and designing biomedical devices and materials. Biotribology aims to understand how biological systems effectively deal with friction, wear, and lubrication. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of these phenomena is not only essential for unraveling the processes of musculoskeletal function, but it also has significant potential for enhancing healthcare technologies, biomaterials, and regenerative medicine. This book provides a thorough and detailed exploration of the complex field of biotribology and interactions that take place at the interface of living materials. It examines the fundamental principles, latest research, and practical applications of biotribology. It explores the basic characteristics of biological surfaces, explaining the intricate structures and mechanical features that control how they interact with each other. Topics include the causes of friction and wear in biological systems, the lubrication techniques used by live creatures, and the study of how specific tissues and organs, such as articular cartilage, dental structures, and soft tissues, interact with each other. In addition, it describes the biotribological difficulties linked to implantable medical devices, the influence of biomaterials and surface alterations in improving biocompatibility and performance, and the developing areas of nanotribology and computational modeling in understanding the complexities of biological interfaces.