Synthesis and Properties of Composite Biomaterials Based on Hydroxyapatite and Poly(L-Lactide)

Abstract

Composite biomaterial composed of poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and hydroxyapatite (HA) was obtained by using the combination of solvent evaporation technique and hot pressing. HA particles in the PLLA matrix were homogeneously dispersed. A typical morphology of brittle failure with a smooth fracture surface was observed. The addition of HA particles changed significantly the appearance of the impact fracture surface to a pattern of multiple cracks. With the increasing of the amount of the HA, the bending strength of composite decreases while the bending modulus increases. The PLLA/HA composite exhibits improved cell compatibility due to the good biocompatibility of the HA particles.