Incorporation of graphene nanoplatelets/hydroxyapatite in PMMA bone cement for characterization and enhanced mechanical properties of biopolymer composites

Abstract

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) in powder form is broadly used as bone cement in orthopedic applications due to its expanded mechanical, physical, and chemical properties. In this study, a hybrid PMMA biopolymer nanocomposite is developed by the supplement of graphene nanoplatelets (GnP) and hydroxyapatite (HA) powders of nano-size with combined loadings ranging from 0.5 to 2.5 weight %. Both materials were applied uniformly to reinforce commercial bone cement made of polymethylmethacrylate. The findings showed that adding 1.5 wt.% of combined HA and GnP nanoparticles to the powder of PMMA bone cement resulted in the expansion of flexural strength by 49.28%, the flexural modulus by 30.80%, the compression strength by 31.7%, and the compression modulus by 57.41%. The nanocomposite was characterized using Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDS), Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to study the distribution of reinforced nanoparticles. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis of the prepared samples and fractured surface shows the proper dispersion of nanofillers into the matrix phase and possible reasons behind fracture. The inclusion of GnP and HA in the PMMA enhances the mechanical performances required for biomedical components. Also, the SEM findings of the mechanically tested broken surface of the polymer nanocomposite samples demonstrated the feasibility of the proposed material for joint replacement surgical procedures and orthopedic implants.

Polymer-ceramic composites for bone challenging applications: Materials and manufacturing processes

“…To overcome these limitations, several ongoing studies are exploring innovative techniques and improved materials to enhance the capabilities of bioceramics. 24,[79][80][81] These endeavors seek to overcome the challenges associated with their mechanical properties, promote enhanced strength and resilience, and ensure compatibility with the natural regeneration processes of bone. 82…”

Composite cement embedded in a biopolymer matrix for bone tissue regeneration

“…4 Recent research studies have shown that therapeutic composites, such as phosphocalcic ceramic materials embedded in biodegradable biopolymers, have promised orthopedic uses in bone tissue regeneration. [5][6][7][8] The main advantages of these materials lie in the combination of the rheological and mechanical qualities of the polymer with the biocompatibility, bioactivity, and osteoconductivity of the bioceramic, which enhances bone regrowth. 9,10 In this research study, researchers developed and analysed a biomaterial that would support a bone regeneration mechanism.…”

“…It is subtle that these biomaterials are classified into organic or inorganic materials, where calcium phosphate (CaP) bioceramics stand for the majority of inorganic scaffolds while natural or synthetic biopolymers form the majority of organic scaffolds. 4 Recent research studies have shown that therapeutic composites, such as phosphocalcic ceramic materials embedded in biodegradable biopolymers, have promised orthopedic uses in bone tissue regeneration 5–8. The main advantages of these materials lie in the combination of the rheological and mechanical qualities of the polymer with the biocompatibility, bioactivity, and osteoconductivity of the bioceramic, which enhances bone regrowth.…”

Development of reduced Graphene oxide modified Ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (rGO/UHMWPE) based Nanocomposites for Biomedical Applications

“…UHMWPE/HDPE/MWCNT nanocomposites were found to be less elastic than their blends. In the study of Dubey et al, 24 the effect of Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs)/hydroxyapatite (HA) in PMMA bone cement is used to produce a biopolymer composite. The amount of each nanofiller applied is between 0 and 0.5 wt.%.…”