The Combination of Graphene and Polycaprolactone Scaffolds Enhancing Bone Mineralization and Hydroxyapatite

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of incorporating varying concentrations of graphene (0.5, 1.5, and 2.5 wt%) into polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds on mineralization and hydroxyapatite formation for bone tissue engineering applications.

PCL scaffolds were fabricated with three different graphene concentrations: 0.5, 1.5, and 2.5 wt%. The scaffolds underwent characterization using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to assess chemical composition and mineralization. Radiological imaging was employed to evaluate structural integrity and mineral density over a 21-day period. Additionally, histology analysis was performed to assess cellular interactions and scaffold integration.

FTIR analysis on day 7 indicated early mineralization across all scaffolds, evidenced by phosphate (∼1030 cm^-1) and hydroxyl (∼3500 cm^-1) peaks, suggesting initial hydroxyapatite deposition. By day 21, the 2.5 wt% graphene scaffold demonstrated the highest degree of mineralization, with significantly increased hydroxyapatite formation compared with the other groups. However, this scaffold also exhibited signs of degradation, implying that higher graphene concentrations might compromise long-term scaffold stability. The 1.5 wt% graphene scaffold showed consistent mineralization and favorable osteoconductivity but did not reach the mineral deposition levels observed in the 2.5 wt% group.

Incorporating graphene into PCL scaffolds enhances mineralization and hydroxyapatite formation, with the 2.5 wt% concentration achieving the most substantial effects. The 2.5 wt% graphene scaffold presents a balanced alternative, promoting steady mineralization and maintaining structural integrity, making it a promising candidate for bone tissue engineering applications.