Low Temperature Preparation of Resorbable Fluoroapatite Glass-Ceramics for Use as Artificial Bone
Researchers have developeda method by which a fluorapatite-based glass-ceramic composition can besintered at a low temperature of 775°C, and resulted in an apatite depositionmicrostructure that encouraged actual bone deposition upon the artificialstructure. The yielded density is close to 99% of the theoretical density,which demonstrated that the low temperature of 775°C did not negatively affectthe fluorapatite-based composition. Increasing the calcium to aluminum ratio promotedthe sintering process, and allowed for the control of both crystalline phasesand the formation of specific microstructures. The invention has a uniquemicrostructure consisting of flower-shaped fluorapatite crystals that promotesbiocompatibility. The structure is also known to further promote apatitedeposition, cell differentiation, production of collagen fibers, and calciumphosphate nodules. This methodology yields favorable results while sintering atlower temperatures than conventional artificial bone production methods,thereby creating a cost-effective bioceramic that saves time and money.
USA
