Microstructural, electrical and biological activity in [Formula: see text] ceramic composites designed for tissue...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Ceramics

Background:

• Electrically active ceramic composites are crucial for advanced biomedical applications.
• Understanding the relationship between microstructural, dielectric, and biological properties is key for developing effective biomaterials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the dielectric and biological properties of hydroxyapatite (HAP) and barium strontium titanate (BST) ceramic composites.
• To correlate these properties with microstructural characteristics for biomedical applications.
• To identify an optimal composite composition for smart scaffolds.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication and characterization of HAP-BST ceramic composites.
• Measurement of dielectric constant ([Formula: see text]) and its relation to microstructural features (grain size, BST at.%).
• Bioactivity assessment, including surface charge analysis and apatite layer formation.
• Cytocompatibility testing (cell viability) and protein adsorption studies (BSA, FBS).

Main Results:

• Dielectric constant ([Formula: see text]) ranged from 3-65, correlating with microstructural properties.
• Negative surface charges were crucial for dense apatite layer growth, indicating good bioactivity.
• Cell viability exceeded 100% by Day 1 and increased by Day 3.
• Protein adsorption showed a linear dependence on surface charge and dielectric constant.
• The 20 at.% HAP-80 at.% BST (20H-80B) composite exhibited desirable electrical and biological properties.

Conclusions:

• The 20H-80B composite demonstrates significant potential for biomedical applications, particularly for electrically active smart scaffolds.
• The study highlights the importance of tailored dielectric and biological properties for advanced biomaterial design.
• Further clinical trials are suggested for the promising 20H-80B composite.