In situ mechanical and molecular investigations of collagen/apatite biomimetic composites combining Raman spectroscopy and stress-strain analysis

Abstract

Collagen and apatite are the main constituents regulating the mechanical properties of bone. Hence, an improved understanding of the impact of mineralization on these properties is of large interest for the scientific community. This paper presents systematic studies of synthetic collagen microfibers with increasing apatite content and their response to tensile stress by using a novel self-made electromechanical device combined with a Raman spectrometer for molecular level studies. The impact of apatite on the mechanical and molecular response of collagen is evaluated giving important insights into the interaction between the mineral and organic phases. Therefore our findings expand the fundamental understanding of the mechanics of the apatite/collagen system relevant for the design of bio-composites with similar bio-mimicking properties for e.g. bone regrowth in medical applications.