Nanostructure Processing of Hydroxyapatite-based Bioceramics

Abstract

Nanostructure processing was applied to derive hydroxyapatite and hydroxyapatite-zirconia bioceramics with ultrafine microstructures and significantly improved mechanical properties for orthopedic and dental implant applications. Despite its attractive bioactivity, hydroxyapatite (HAP) has been limited in applications due to the poor processability and mechanical strength of the conventional material. Through nanostructure processing, high-strength HAP has been obtained by pressure-assisted sintering. To further toughen the HAP matrix, nanocrystalline yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) dispersoids have been introduced during HAP precipitation. The nanostructured HAP and HAP−YSZ composites demonstrated excellent chemical and microstructural uniformity and mechanical properties, compared to conventional coarse-grained systems.