WHAT AND WHY:
A library of implantable materials with tunable properties, enabling versatile grafts that can augment or repair any part of the body.
SKILLS (non-technical): polyurethane synthesis, Machine shop: tensile testing
OUTCOME: These polyurethanes (i.e. the foamy materials used in your mattress!) can be used in the body and can be tuned to match whatever organ you are targetting (ex. tendons or heart valves). This plug-and-play system allows for tunable degradation rates and tunable mechanical properties, and are easy to make!
SHORT STORY: