Multiscale modeling of bone fracture using cohesive finite elements

Bone is a hierarchical material that exhibit fracture mechanisms at multiple scales and will benefit from a multiscale evaluation approach for better fracture risk assessment. This study developed a cohesive finite element modeling approach that simulated bone fracture at micro- and macroscale. Simulation results showed that the microscale fracture toughening was most effective when the cement line had lower strength than the surrounding bone reducing the propensity to fracture at the macroscale. These results demonstrate the importance of cement line strength in controlling the fracture toughening mechanisms and the effect of microscale properties in the whole bone fracture risk assessment.

► Most effective fracture toughening resulted from lower cement line strength. ► Lower cement line strength reduced the propensity to fracture at the macroscale. ► Evaluating microscale properties improves whole bone fracture risk assessment.