In-vitro biomineralization of magnesium and copper co-doped wollastonite

Calcium silicate-based ceramics, particularly wollastonite (CaSiO₃), are gaining prominence in hard tissue engineering due to their biocompatibility and bioactivity. However, pure wollastonite faces challenges such as insufficient mechanical strength and susceptibility to bacterial colonization. This study addresses these issues by systematically synthesizing magnesium and copper co-doped wollastonite (MgCuW) using the sol-gel combustion technique, aiming to enhance its mechanical stability and antibacterial properties. The average crystalline size of the synthesized materials ranged from 25 to 47 nm. In vitro biomineralization studies showed significant hydroxyapatite deposition, confirming enhanced bioactivity. Antibacterial tests against Gram-positive (S. aureus, S. epidermidis) and Gram-negative (E. coli, P. aeruginosa) bacteria demonstrated superior antibacterial activity with increased copper doping. The results indicate that MgCuW is a promising biomaterial for bone tissue engineering, combining bioactivity and antibacterial efficacy.