PLA-based 3D printed porous scaffolds under mixed-mode I/III loading

Additive manufacturing technologies, due to their unique manufacturing features, have been viewed as a potential alternative to the conventional production of medical implants. Biome-chanical structures, however, are susceptible to crack growth under constant loading conditions, which can occur due to mixed-modes of loadings. Here, the effects of mixed-mode I/III loading conditions on 3D printed porous scaffolds were investigated. Different design parameters like pore size and geometry were analyzed. Numerical analysis was utilized to explore the stress in-tensity factor distribution under various loading conditions. Results revealed that the size, shape, density, and pattern of pores had critical impacts on mechanical strength.