A new process is described for preparing dense, polycrystalline hydroxylapatite. This material has close to theoretical density and is free of fine pores and second phases. The best material has an average compressive strength of 917 MN m -2 (133 • 103 psi), and polished samples have an average tensile strength of 196 MN m-2 (28.4 • 103 psi). The material is highly translucent, and the degree of translucence depends upon processing conditions. The relationship between processing variables and microstructure, strength, and translucence is described. This dense hydroxylapatite has good promise for bone implants and dental applications.
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