Surface modification using the biomimetic method in alumina‐zirconia porous ceramics obtained by the replica method

Abstract

The modification of biomaterials approved by the Food and Drug Administration could be an alternative to reduce the period of use in humans. Porous bioceramics are widely used as support structures for bone formation and repair. This composite has essential characteristics for an implant, including good mechanical properties, high chemical stability, biocompatibility and adequate aesthetic appearance. Here, three-dimensional porous scaffolds of Al O containing 5% by volume of ZrO were produced by the replica method. These scaffolds had their surfaces chemically treated with phosphoric acid and were coated with calcium phosphate using the biomimetic method simulated body fluid (SBF, 5×) for 14 days. The scaffolds, before and after biomimetic coating, were characterized mechanically, morphologically and structurally by axial compression tests, scanning electron microscopy, microtomography, apparent porosity, X-ray diffractometry, near-infrared spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and reactivity. The in vitro cell viability and formation of mineralization nodules were used to identify the potential for bone regeneration. The produced scaffols after immersion in SBF were able to induce the nodules formation. These characteristics are advantaged by the formation of different phases of calcium phosphates on the material surface in a reduced incubation period. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 2615-2624, 2018.

Porous alumina scaffolds chemically modified by calcium phosphate minerals and their application in bone grafts

“…The compounds and their proportions by weight used in the production of the slip for the preparation of the scaffolds by the replica method were fabricated according to the work of Silva et al…”

“…Chemical treatment of the scaffold surfaces was performed in 5‐M H 3 PO 4 solution at 90°C for 4 days in a thermostatic bath and under reflux . After the chemical treatment, scaffolds were coated using the biomimetic method (SBF 5×), proposed by Barrere, with calcium phosphate minerals, for 14 days of incubation at 36.5°C.…”

“…Ceramic alumina scaffolds containing hydroxyapatite (HAp) produced by the replica method have been studied for several years . Through the replica method, bodies of complex shapes can be obtained with interconnected and suitable pore morphologies having different diameters.…”

“…Through the replica method, bodies of complex shapes can be obtained with interconnected and suitable pore morphologies having different diameters. The open cell structure can be used to control the pore morphology through the sponge and the amount of additives used; highly porous materials with pores of the proper morphology can be obtained, which are favorable for applications in implants . Inorganic materials comprising calcium phosphate minerals, including HAp and its phases, have gained increasing attention because they are highly biocompatible and osteoconductive .…”

“…Several studies have reported a greater efficacy of biodegradable synthetic substitutes, with non‐biodegradable alumina ceramics, supporting the use of this bioactive material in coatings . Chemical treatment of alumina with phosphoric acid (H 3 PO 4 ) before it is applied as a coating is not commonly reported; thus far, only our research group has performed such studies …”