Synthesis and characterization of hydroxyapatite/poly(vinyl alcohol phosphate) nanocomposite biomaterials

A hydroxyapatite (HAp)/poly(vinyl alcohol phosphate) (PVAP) nanocomposite has been prepared by a chemical method by varying the HAp content by 10-60% (w/w). The bonding between HAp and PVAP has been investigated through Fourier transform infrared absorption spectra, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analyses. Transmission electron microscopy study shows a homogeneous dispersion of nanoparticles in the polymer matrix. Scanning electron microscopy study shows enhancement of the surface roughness of the composite with an increase in the nanoparticle content. The mechanical properties of the composites improve significantly with an increase in the HAp content. The HAp/PVAP nanocomposite prepared may have bone-implant applications.