Cellular biocompatibility and resistance to compression of macroporous beta-tricalcium phosphate ceramics

The main problem for macroporous structures used as bone substitutes is their lower resistances when compared to that of cancellous bone. The present investigation aimed to improve the strength of ceramics with 65% porosities based on beta-TCP. The initial mixtures were rendered plastic by addition of non-ionic carbohydrate binders. Macropores were created using substances which were eliminated by heat. Mechanical tests indicated that the resistance of the ceramics depended more on the quantity than the nature of the binders. Porosity measurements were done with a mercury porosimeter, and cellular biocompatibility was evaluated by performing cellular attachment tests and observing the proliferation of differentiated cells.