3D Printed Piezoelectric BaTiO₃/Polyhydroxybutyrate Nanocomposite Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Bone defects represent a global health challenge.
• Biomaterial scaffolds are crucial for stimulating tissue regeneration.
• Mimicking natural bio-signals is key for effective tissue engineering.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize novel piezoelectric scaffolds.
• To incorporate barium titanate nanoparticles into a polyhydroxybutyrate matrix.
• To evaluate scaffolds for vascularized bone tissue engineering applications.

Main Methods:

• Nanocomposites of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and barium titanate (BaTiO3) were fabricated using mixing and extrusion.
• Morphological, thermal, mechanical, and piezoelectric properties were analyzed.
• 3D printing was employed to create porous scaffolds, followed by biodegradation testing.

Main Results:

• Scanning electron microscopy confirmed good nanoparticle dispersion.
• Increased barium titanate content significantly enhanced Young's modulus, compressive strength, and piezoelectric coefficient (d31 up to 37 pm/V).
• 3D printed scaffolds exhibited controlled pore sizes (0.60-0.77 mm), good mechanical stability, and low mass loss (~4%) after 8 weeks of biodegradation.

Conclusions:

• The developed BaTiO3/PHB nanocomposites possess excellent piezoelectric and mechanical properties.
• 3D printed scaffolds demonstrate suitability for bone tissue engineering.
• These findings present a promising strategy for creating vascularized bone tissue.