Preparation and characterization of nanosized silver phosphate loaded hydroxyapatite by single step co-conversion...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Materials Chemistry

Background:

• Hydroxyapatite is a key biomaterial, but lacks inherent antibacterial properties.
• Silver-based materials exhibit potent antimicrobial activity.
• Developing effective antibacterial biomaterials is crucial for preventing infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize silver phosphate nanoparticles loaded hydroxyapatite (Ag3PO4/HAp) composite.
• To investigate the effect of silver nitrate concentration on material properties and antibacterial efficacy.
• To evaluate the cytotoxic potential of the synthesized composite.

Main Methods:

• Single-step co-conversion technique using low-temperature phosphorization.
• Varying silver nitrate (AgNO3) concentrations (0.001-0.1M).
• Characterization using X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy.
• Assessment of mechanical properties (flexural modulus and strength).
• Antibacterial activity testing against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.
• Cytotoxicity evaluation using MTT assay.

Main Results:

• Hydroxyapatite and silver phosphate were identified as main phases.
• Spherical silver phosphate nanoparticles were observed within hydroxyapatite nanocrystals.
• Increased silver content correlated with increased AgNO3 concentration.
• Optimal antibacterial activity (100% bacterial reduction) achieved with 0.001M and 0.005M AgNO3.
• Mechanical properties remained stable at low AgNO3 concentrations but decreased at higher concentrations.
• Cytotoxicity was observed at 24h for 0.001M AgNO3 and across 24-72h for 0.005M AgNO3.

Conclusions:

• The co-conversion method successfully produced Ag3PO4/HAp nanoparticles.
• Low concentrations of AgNO3 yield effective antibacterial properties with manageable cytotoxicity.
• The composite shows promise as an antibacterial biomaterial, particularly for applications requiring infection prevention.