title: A modified semi-automated technique for in vitro assessment of encrustation of materials.
abstract: In vitro study of encrustation is an important part of assessment of materials as potential alloplasts or devices in the urinary tract. This modified semi-automated technique comprises a circular reaction chamber with an encrustation mixture, the level of which is controlled by a float switch which operates the exit peristaltic pump. The composition of the reactants used simulates infected urine with alkaline pH. Results of a preliminary study of the deposits by scanning electron micrography (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalysis are consistent with struvite and hydroxyapatite, similar to the main minerals deposited on urinary catheters. It is a relatively simple, effective and inexpensive set-up for study of encrustation on materials.
authors.affiliation: Bristol Urological Institute, Department of Urology, Southmead Hospital.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Gepi-Attee
authors.forename: R C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Feneley
mesh_terms: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D002404:Catheterization; D003460:Crystallization; D017886:Durapatite / Q000032:analysis*; D004577:Electron Probe Microanalysis; D004868:Equipment Failure; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D017616:Magnesium Compounds / Q000032:analysis*; D008422:Materials Testing; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D010710:Phosphates / Q000032:analysis*; D000069877:Struvite; D014546:Urinary Catheterization / Q000295:instrumentation*; D014556:Urine / Q000737:chemistry*
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D017616:Magnesium Compounds; D010710:Phosphates; D017886:Durapatite; D000069877:Struvite