The fabrication and characterization of biodegradable HA/PHBV nanoparticle-polymer composite scaffolds

This study reports the fabrication and characterization of nano-sized hydroxyapatite (HA)/poly(hydroxyabutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) polymer composite scaffolds with high porosity and controlled pore architectures. These scaffolds were prepared using a modified thermally induced phase-separation technique. This investigation focuses on the effect of fabrication conditions on the overall pore architecture of the scaffolds and the dispersion of HA nanocrystals within the composite scaffolds. The morphologies, mechanical properties and in vitro bioactivity of the composite scaffolds were investigated. It was noted that the pore architectures could be manipulated by varying phase-separation parameters. The HA particles were dispersed in the pore walls of the scaffolds and were well bonded to the polymer. The introduction of HA greatly increased the stiffness and strength, and improved the in vitro bioactivity of the scaffolds. The results suggest these newly developed nano-HA/PHBV composite scaffolds may serve as an effective three-dimensional substrate in bone tissue engineering.