Feasibility and Performance of 3D Printed Cobalt-Chromium Dentures

About the project

About the Project Applications are invited for a self-funded, 3 year full-time or 6 year part-time PhD project. The PhD will be based in the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering and will be supervised by Dr Roxane Bonithon and Professor Chris Louca . The work on this project will: Investigate cobalt-chromium (CoCr) alloy printing parameters and surface finishing Compare mechanical and biological performance with conventional cast CoCr and acrylic -based dentures Assess microbial colonization risks (bacteria and Candida) Potential for clinical evaluation of denture performance Project description (max 400 words) This PhD project aims to assess the feasibility of producing cobalt-chromium dentures using advanced 3D printing technologies. While polymer-based dentures have been successfully printed, metallic dentures remain less well explored. Metallic dentures offer superior strength, durability, and biocompatibility compared to polymer-based alternatives, making them ideal for long-term oral applications. The research will involve optimizing 3D printing parameters for cobalt-chromium alloys, evaluating surface finishing techniques to achieve clinically acceptable smoothness, and comparing the resulting dentures with conventional cast and acrylic-based alternatives. Key performance indicators will include mechanical properties (strength, fatigue resistance), dimensional accuracy (using microCT technology), and biological safety, with a particular focus on microbial colonization risks such as bacteria and Candida, which can compromise oral health. This project offers an exciting opportunity to combine materials science, additive manufacturing, and dental health research. The findings have potential clinical relevance for improving patient outcomes, reducing production costs and time, and advancing the adoption of metal-based 3D printing in dentistry. To support this work, the University provides access to multiple state-of-the-art metallic 3D printers, including the 3D Systems ProX 300 and 3D Systems ProJet 5500X. These industry-leading machines enable precise control over printing parameters and material properties. General admissions criteria You'll need a good first degree from an internationally recognised university (minimum upper second class or equivalent, depending on your chosen course) or a Master’s degree in a related area. In exceptional cases, we may consider equivalent professional experience and/or Qualifications. English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0. International students will require a study visa from UKVI to pursue the degree in the UK. If the research is in a sensitive or technological subject, the student may also need to secure an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate from the UK Foreign Office. Specific candidate requirements Applicants will need a dentistry, material engineering (preferably dental biomaterials), biomedical science or additive manufacturing background with experience in material testing coupled with a strong interest in dentistry and health science. How to Apply We’d encourage you to contact Dr Roxane Bonithon ( roxane.bonithon@port.ac.uk ) to discuss your interest before you apply, quoting the project code. When you are ready to apply, please follow the ' Apply now ' link on the Mechanical and Design PhD subject area page and select the link for the relevant intake. Make sure you submit a personal statement, proof of your degrees and grades, details of two referees, proof of your English language proficiency and an up-to-date CV. Our ‘ How to Apply ’ page offers further guidance on the PhD application process. When applying please quote project code: SEM10330526

Research areas