Carbon lamination in Prosthetics & Orthotics:

One of the most durable materials used in orthotics and prosthetics applications is carbon. Carbon is extremely light, stiff, and capable of maintaining its shape under pressure. This is as a result of its strong tensile properties in both tension and compression. A bi-directional weave in the carbon material increases tear resistance and ensures that the device’s strength is constant. Carbon fiber is robust and resilient, it can withstand greater and heavier use than the alternatives. It is a light-weight option.

In Orthotics, carbon lamination is often used to create custom foot orthotics that can be worn in shoes to correct gait abnormalities, improve balance and stability, and reduce pain and discomfort in the feet, ankles, and knees. Carbon lamination can also be used to create ankle-foot orthosis (AFOs), which are braces that extend from the foot to the calf to provide support and stability to the ankle joint. Or knee ankle-foot orthosis (KAFOs) which extend from the foot to the thigh to provide support and stability to the ankle and knee joint

In Prosthetics, carbon lamination is used to create artificial limbs that are strong, durable, and lightweight. Carbon fiber materials can be used to create the prosthetic socket of the prosthetic limb.

Advantages of Carbon Fibre:

• Strength: Carbon fiber is extremely strong and has a high tensile strength, making it an ideal material for creating orthotics and prosthetics that can support and withstand a lot of force and pressure. 
• Lightweight: Carbon fiber is also lightweight, which means it is comfortable for the patient to wear and doesn’t add unnecessary weight to their movements. This is particularly important for patients who are wearing prosthetic limbs, as a heavy limb can be tiring to wear for extended periods 
• Durability: Carbon fiber is highly resistant to wear and tear, which means that orthotics and prosthetics made from this material are likely to last longer than those made from other materials. This can save patients money in the long run, as they won’t need to replace their devices as frequently. 
• Customizable: Carbon fiber can be molded into virtually any shape, which means that orthotics and prosthetics can be custom-designed to fit the unique needs of each individual patient. This can help ensure a more comfortable and effective fit. 
• Aesthetics: Carbon fiber has a sleek, modern look that many patients find appealing. This can be especially important for patients who are self-conscious about their orthotics or prosthetics, as a visually appealing device can help boost their confidence and self-esteem.

Disadvantages of Carbon Fibre:

• Carbon fiber devices are more expensive than plastic devices due to increased material costs and increased production times.
• The hardness of the material may cause issues in some situations where sensation may be compromised.
• Once produced they can’t be heat altered. Traditional plastic devices can be adjusted with heat to enable alteration. Carbon fiber orthoses can not be heat adjusted once they are made.

It is important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of carbon fiber when deciding on the best material for orthotics and prosthetics. Ultimately, the decision will depend on the specific needs and circumstances of each individual patient. At MOBILIS, we can work with any difficult lamination production procedures since we have the most advanced lamination lab.