Mechanically strong CaSiO3 scaffolds incorporating B2O3-ZnO liquid phase

Abstract

Calcium silicate (CaSiO3) scaffolds were reinforced by introducing liquid phase. The liquid phase was made of B2O3 and ZnO. The fracture toughness and compressive strength increased by 48% and 141%, respectively, compared with those of the scaffolds without the liquid phase. This was attributed to the enhanced densification, the elongated grains pull-out and the cracks bridging. In addition, because of its increasing mechanical properties, the fracture model of the cleavage fracture was more beneficial than the intergranular fracture. The mechanical properties of the scaffolds with the liquid phase could be steadily maintained and then they decreased slowly when immersed in simulated body fluid (SBF). Meanwhile, the hydroxyapatite (HAp) generated on their surfaces. In addition, the scaffolds possessed favorable biocompatibility and could promote cell proliferation. These results demonstrated that the scaffolds with B2O3-ZnO liquid phase are a promising substitute for bone repair applications.