Modelling and simulation of the expansion of a shape memory polymer stent
ISSN: 0264-4401
Article publication date: 10 May 2019
Issue publication date: 15 October 2019
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the feasibility of using shape memory polymer (SMP) for developing vascular stent. In particular, the expansion performance is analyzed through extensive modeling and simulation.
Design/methodology/approach
Firstly, the authors construct the model geometry and propose a constitutive model to describe the deformation of the stent due to the expansion process. The authors then simulate the expansion process under varying conditions, including different heating rates and recovery temperatures. Finally, the authors analyze the radial strength of the SMP stent.
Findings
A less invasive and stable expansion performance of the SMP stent is confirmed by the simulation method. A fitting function of the expansion process is proposed based on the characteristics of the SMP.
Research limitations/implications
The effects of dynamic blood flow on the SMP stent is ignored. A fluid-structure interaction analysis may need to be considered to give a more accurate description of the behaviour of the SMP stent.
Practical implications
The findings will provide guidance for the rational design and application of SMP stents.
Social implications
The work will provide guidance for the new generation stent design.
Originality/value
This is the first time that the expansion performance of a SMP stent has been analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively through modelling and simulation.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
RXL and ZSL are grateful for the support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China through grant numbers 11811530287 and 11572236.
Citation
Liu, R., Mcginty, S., Cui, F., Luo, X. and Liu, Z. (2019), "Modelling and simulation of the expansion of a shape memory polymer stent", Engineering Computations, Vol. 36 No. 8, pp. 2726-2746. https://doi.org/10.1108/EC-10-2018-0462
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited