Pioneering Novel Biomaterials for Implant Infection Control
Implant-associated infections remain the leading cause of implant failure, particularly those arising at the interface between the implant surface and surrounding soft tissues. To address this critical clinical challenge, the Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing (CRPM) research cluster at the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), in collaboration with the Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI), has developed a novel biomaterial comprising polycaprolactone/polyurethane (PCL/PU) and PCL/PU/copper oxide nanoparticle (PCL/PU/CuO NPs) composite nanofibres.
These nanofibres are applied as surface coatings onto commercially pure titanium (cpTi) and Ti6Al4V implants via an electrospinning process, with the dual objectives of imparting robust antibacterial properties and promoting enhanced host soft tissue integration. The novelty of this research has resulted in the awarding of TIA Pre-Seed Funding and the successful establishment of a provisional South African patent, marking a significant advancement in biomedical engineering and patient safety.
Strategic Alignment
Strategic Goals 2 and 3
Innovative and Industry-Relevant Programmes and Future-Focused University of Technology: Translating advanced biomedical research into patented, commercialisable technologies that address critical healthcare challenges.
UoT Mandate
This project directly fulfils the University of Technology mandate through a strong STEM Focus, Applied Research that solves industry-specific clinical challenges, and the cultivation of an Innovation Eco-system that drives technology transfer and commercialisation.
Project Partners and Impact
Measurable Outcomes
- Development of a novel PCL/PU and PCL/PU/CuO NPs composite nanofibre biomaterial for implant surface coating via advanced electrospinning processes.
- Successful acquisition of Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) Pre-Seed Funding (Project No. 20250622) and the establishment of a provisional South African patent to protect the intellectual property.
- International dissemination of research findings, with Dr Nthabiseng Nhlapo presenting the novel material at the prestigious ASTM International Conference on Advanced Manufacturing in Las Vegas, USA.
- Advancement of implant technology readiness, ensuring robust antibacterial properties and enhanced host soft tissue integration for commercially pure titanium and Ti6Al4V implants.
Research Leadership
Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing (CRPM) and the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, featuring the groundbreaking work of Dr Nthabiseng Nhlapo.
Collaboration Partners
Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI), alongside strategic academic partners including the Rhodes University Biotechnology Innovation Centre (RUBIC) for biological and cytotoxicity assessments.
Get Involved
Join CUT in advancing biomedical engineering, additive manufacturing, and health innovation solutions. Explore how your organisation can partner with us on applied research, technology transfer, and work-integrated learning initiatives.
Explore Industry Partnerships
