Fabrication and properties evaluation of chitosan/BaTiO3 composite membranes for the periodontitis treatment

Abstract

Periodontitis gradually damages the hard and soft tissues surrounding the tooth, leading to tooth loss. In recent years, the use of biomaterials in periodontitis treatment has expanded, including gels, nanoparticles, microparticles, fibers, and membranes. Among these, membranes have more clinical applications. Due to the ability of the piezoelectric material to regenerate damaged tissues, the aim of this study was to create piezoelectric composite membranes. To achieve this, Barium titanate powder (BaTiO3 powder)—a piezoelectric substance—was synthesized using the hydrothermal method and analyzed with X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Four types of membranes were fabricated using solvent casting method: three composite membranes with chitosan matrix and BaTiO3 fillers (at 3%, 6%, and 9% weight), and one chitosan membrane without BaTiO3. The microstructure of the membrane surfaces, agglomeration of BaTiO3 in membranes, and hydrophilicity, antibacterial, and electrical properties of the membrane were also investigated. The results indicated that membranes containing 3 and 6% BaTiO3 had suitable surface structure for the periodontitis treatment. Agglomeration of BaTiO3 particles was higher in the membrane containing 9% BaTiO3. The large amount of BaTiO3 improved the antibacterial properties of the membranes. Additionally, the membranes containing BaTiO3 had high electrical properties, especially those with 3% and 6% BaTiO3. Therefore, composite membranes containing BaTiO3, especially membranes containing 6% BaTiO3, are more favorable options than those without BaTiO3 for periodontitis treatment.