bwA - Biomaterials Aachen

Network Profile

The competence center for biomaterials research was established at RWTH Aachen. It is an interdisciplinary project involving nine research institutions from the faculties of mathematics, computer science and natural sciences, mechanical engineering, mining, metallurgic engineering and geosciences, and medicine. In collaboration with industry, the center develops bespoke implants using soft and partially hard tissue contact, performing a unique combination of activities: basic research and materials development, as well as application-oriented processing. Under "MaTech", a program sponsored by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research with support from the Ministry for Science and Research of North Rhine-Westphalia, the following core skills have emerged over a period of almost five years:

• Development of new polymers with controllable resorbability
  
• Optimization of the interfacial compatibility of biomaterials through bespoke surface modifications
  
• Development of defined active agent release systems
  
• Tissue engineering
  
• Bespoke textile structures for implants
  
• Testing of biomaterial and implant properties
  
• Investigations of biocompatibility

The aim of the bwA is to secure the added value of scientific research results achieved throughout the period of support. The research group is currently being converted as a spin-off into an independent legal entity and is being restructured accordingly. In its new form, the bwA will pool core skills in the development of new biomaterials and their applications, employing entrepreneurial practices to rapidly implement research projects and product developments. The bwA can call on optimum resources in offering its services and developing new core skills in the field of biomaterials research through its integration in the network of other competence centers (AKM, IZKF "BIOMAT"), its placement amongst a host of research centers at RWTH Aachen and the university clinic, non-university research centers, and numerous medical engineering companies in the Aachen region.

Press releases

Further Information: www.biowerkstoffe-aachen.de/