Synthesis and characterization of HAp-based porous materials

The synthesis and characterization of new hydroxyapatite-based porous materials are reported. These were prepared using synthetic hydroxyapatite (HAp) (Ca-10 (PO4)(6) (OH)(2))of controlled particle size, different polymeric resins (rigid, semi-rigid and flexible) and a crosslinking agent to bond chemically all components. The pores were generated during the reaction between the hydroxyl groups of HAp and resin, and the blocked-isocyanate. The pore size was varied from 140 to 250 mu m in diameter and the pore volume fraction from 25 to 60%; these pores are interconnected. With these characteristics they can be potentially used as implants and prosthesis for bone ingrowth applications. These materials posses high wearing resistance, low processing temperature, high hydrolytic stability, good mechanical properties and excellent adhesion to bone surface. They were characterized by: XRD, SEM. densitometry, abrasion and mechanical tests. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.