Commercialization roadmap for degradable, biocompatible bone implants

A game-changing commercialization strategy—crafted by RSM MBA graduate Eriko Utama Halim—is propelling TU Delft’s breakthrough in biodegradable, 3D-printed bone implants toward clinical and market success. Backed by the Convergence Health & Technology Accelerator and the Flagship Healthy Joints, this effort unites scientists, clinicians, entrepreneurs, regulators, and investors to transform the future of bone repair.

At the heart of this initiative is an innovative solution: degradable, biocompatible bone implants that naturally dissolve in the body—eliminating the need for surgical removal. Following a successful pre-clinical formulation, one of the few globally, the project aimed to chart a clear path toward clinical application and market adoption.

To achieve this, Eriko Utama Halim, a RSM MBA graduate, developed a robust commercialization strategy focused on identifying high-potential market entry points:

  • Small animal orthopedics
  • Sports injuries
  • Age-related frailty
  • Complex fractures that are difficult to treat with existing methods

We have created 3D-printed biodegradable bone implants that can heal bone defects. After 5 years of intensive research, we are now ready to take the next step of bringing these innovative implants to clinical practice. This involves the concerted efforts of researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs, regulatory bodies, and investors across multiple disciplines.

Zhou, dr. ir. J. (Jie)

TU Delft

Associate Professor Biomaterials & Tissue-Biomechanics

Key publication

Scientifically, the implants are based on FeMn-akermanite composite scaffolds, produced through advanced extrusion-based 3D printing and developed by Niko Putra during his PhD at TU Delft. These scaffolds effectively overcome key limitations of earlier developed Fe-based biodegradable materials and show strong in vitro performance:

  • Biodegradation rates ideal for bone regeneration
  • Mechanical strength in line with trabecular bone
  • MRI compatibility thanks to paramagnetic properties
  • Excellent biocompatibility and support for osteogenic differentiation

This work draws from leading academic research, including a recent award-winning publication by Putra et al. in Acta Biomaterialia, for which The 2023 Acta Materialia Student Award was presented to Dr. Putra.— “Additive manufacturing of biodegradable porous metals for bone repair”.   

With this progress, the publication and this suitable commercialisation strategy, we congratulate the entire team for blending cutting-edge science with strategic innovation—bringing us closer to the next generation of bone repair solutions.