Comparison of Unconfined and Confined Loading of Biomimetic Materials
Articular cartilage has been studied for many decades for its unique mechanical properties. Stress-relaxation and creep experiments are often employed to determine the critical mechanical properties of cartilage. Two loading conditions are typically used for these tests: unconfined and confined loading. These methods are thought to yield different results, as the movement of fluid within the porous medium is different. A simple model is created to test this theory, and provide clarity about the best experimental practices for porous materials with solid and fluid interactions. The results of this analysis have implications for the biomechanics community, as well as in the design of biomimetic surfaces.