Preparation and properties of a novel bone repair composite: nano-hydroxyapatite/chitosan/carboxymethyl cellulose

Nano-hydroxyapatite/chitosan/carboxymethyl cellulose (n-HA/CS/CMC) composites with weight ratios of 70/10/20, 70/15/15 and 70/20/10 were prepared through a co-solution method. The properties of the composites were characterized by means of burn-out test, IR, XRD, TEM and universal material testing machine. The degradation and bioactivity were also investigated by in vitro test in a simulated body fluid (SBF) for 8 weeks. The results showed that n-HA particles were dispersed uniformly in organic phase, and strong chemical interactions formed among the three phases. Moreover, the composites were similar to natural bone in morphology and size. In addition, the compressive strength was improved compared with n-HA/CS composite. The biodegradation rate was controllable by altering weight ratio of the CS/CMC. Meanwhile, the composites could induce apatite particles to deposit in SBF. All the above results indicate that the novel composites of n-HA/CS/CMC have a promising prospect used for bone repair materials in view of the good mechanical property, adjustable biodegradation rate and bioactivity in SBF. Additionally, the study would provide a good guide to exploit clinical application of natural cellulose.