Research Progress and Challenges in 3D Printing of Bioceramics and Bioceramic Matrix Composites

Three-dimensional printing techniques can prepare complex bioceramic parts and scaffolds with high precision and accuracy, low cost, and customized geometry, which greatly broadens their application of 3D-printed bioceramics and bioceramic matrix composites in the clinical field. Nevertheless, the inadequate mechanical properties of 3D-printed bioceramic scaffolds, such as compressive strength, wear resistance, flexural strength, fracture toughness, and other properties, are a bottleneck problem and severely limit their application, which are overcome by introducing reinforcements. Three-dimensional printing techniques and the mechanical property of bioceramics and bioceramic matrix composites with different reinforcements, as well as their potential applications for bone tissue engineering, are discussed. In addition, the biological performance of 3D-printed bioceramics and scaffolds and their applications are presented. To address the challenges of insufficient mechanical strength and mismatched biological performance in bioceramic scaffolds, we summarize current solutions, including the advantages and strengthening effects of fiber, particle, whisker, and ion doping. The effectiveness of these methods is analyzed. Finally, the limitations and challenges in 3D printing of bioceramics and bioceramic matrix composites are discussed to encourage future research in this field. Our work offers a helpful guide to research and medical applications, especially application in the tissue engineering fields of bioceramics and bioceramic matrix composites.