Preparation and bioactivity of novel multiblock thermoplastic elastomer/tricalcium phosphate composites

There is a recognized need for improved treatment of osteoarthritis of the finger joints disease. Joint fusions are commonly used for treating the pain and potential deformity of arthritis. At severe deformity, artificial joint replacement is required. The most widely used are space-filler type joints made of high performance silicone rubber. One of the problems that occurs with these artificial replacements is that they can fail, because silicone elastomer used for their fabrication is relatively weak material and show to break apart and fragment. We have recently developed novel poly(aliphatic/aromatic-ester) (PED) material of sufficient mechanical properties and excellent flexibility. To enhance the bioactivity of these polymers (PED) and bone-bonding properties, PED/beta-TCP composites were prepared. The ceramic particles were homogeneously distributed during conventional blending and showed good adhesion to the polymer matrix. The thermal characteristics and mechanical properties of the composites were investigated as a function of beta-TCP content. The Youngs modulus and the yield strength of the composites increased with the increase in beta-TCP volume while the tensile strength and fracture strain decreased. In vitro investigations demonstrated an increase in cytocompatibility with increasing amount of beta-TCP up to 20 vol%.