Research on Design and Manufacturing of PEKK-Based Mandibular Implants by Fused Deposition Modeling

This paper investigates the practical application of polyetherketonketone (PEKK) material in creating mandibular implants using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology. Digitally replicated a gypsum mandibular model using a high-precision 3D scanner was performed first, ensuring detailed accuracy for the design model presented in the paper. By using Finite Element Analysis, there have been simulated various stress scenarios on the PEKK mandibular models, comparing their mechanical responses to human bone properties. Key findings include the material’s superior tensile strength and bending strength, highlighting its potential for mastication and related stresses. The manufacturing process of the mandibular implant was realizing using a Stratasys Fortus 450 mc printer by Antero 800NA material and SUP8000B for support. The results of mechanical tests are analyzed in relation to research performed on producing mandibular implants with properties similar to the bone, providing insights on the use of PEKK material for this type of medical applications.