Development of Polymer/nano Hydroxyapatite Composite Membrane

Abstract

The main purpose of this project is to prepare a biodegradable, resorb-able composite membrane which assists in bone healing. This composite is developed by adding hydroxyapatite in a polymer matrix in varying weight percentages. Effects of hydroxyapatite in dispersion, decomposition temperature and improvement in mechanical properties are studied. Hydroxyapatite is synthesized by wet precipitation method which involves the reaction of phosphate and calcium precursors and results in nano-HA particles. Solutions of both polymer and HA are prepared in their respective solvents. Then both solutions are mixed together and rigorously stirred to achieve maximum dispersion. Membranes are prepared by solvent casting method. The solution is poured in the petri dish and allowed to be air dried. Finally the membranes are vacuum dried for maximum solvent evaporation. After the samples are prepared they are characterized and mechanical properties are evaluated. Water absorption studies are performed to see the effect of hydrophobicity of HA on composite membrane. As HA content increases, the composite membrane absorbs less water. Tensile testing is done to evaluate the increase in strength due to filler content. As HA weight percentage increases the tensile strength also increases. SEM is performed to observe the morphology of the membranes. It shows even distribution of HA in polymer matrix. As the amount of HA increases, the properties of the membrane also improve. Tensile strength increases and it absorbs less water content which makes it more suitable to be used as a barrier membrane in the orthopedics and dentistry. But after certain amount of HA, the properties decline.