Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Structures, cilt.33, sa.1, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
This study examines the biomechanical performance of a middle ear prosthesis and evaluates the effect of a hydroxyapatite (HA) coating using finite element (FE) analysis under a 90 dB sound pressure level within the 250–8000 Hz range. Prosthesis materials made of titanium grade 2, PEEK, and bone cement were assessed. Bone cement exhibited the highest stress peaks (≈1.27 × 10−8MPa) with pronounced oscillations along the Z-distance, while PEEK presented medium stress levels (≈3.78 × 10−9MPa). Titanium grade 2 demonstrated the lowest stress response (<1.45 × 10−9MPa), indicating superior mechanical stability and more uniform stress distribution. Application of a 0.1 mm HA coating significantly reduced peak stress values for all materials; for example, bone cement stress decreased to ≈8.3 × 10−9MPa while titanium grade 2 retained the lowest levels (<1.95 × 10−9MPa). Stress reductions were particularly notable at PK2 and PK4 regions. Displacement values also decreased after coating, with the greatest reduction observed in titanium grade 2 (≈30%). These findings indicate that a titanium grade 2 prosthesis with HA coating provides enhanced mechanical performance, reduced stress concentration, and improved stability, making it a strong candidate for middle ear reconstruction.