Mechanical Properties of a Vacuum-Sintered Apatite Body for Use as Artificial Bone

Abstract

Regenerative artificial bone material and bone parts were fabricated using vacuum-sintered bodies of a “titanium medical apatite (TMA?)” that is formed by chemically connecting Ti oxide molecules to the reactive [Ca10 (PO4 )6 ] group of hydroxyapatite (HAp). Sintering at temperatures of 1273 - 1773 K caused this TMA sintered bodies to recrystallize and form a varying mix of α-TCP (tricalcium phosphate), β-TCP and Perovskite-CaTiO3 phases. The Perovskite crystals proved to be quite stable and hard, forming a uniform distribution of similarly sized fibers in all directions under vacuum sintering, but an irregular distribution and size when sintered in the presence of oxygen. Complete recrystallization was achieved by vacuum sintering at temperatures in excess of 1473 K. In particular, TMA vacuum-sintered bodies at 1573 K are given the maximum value; a Vickers hardness of 400, a bending strength of 43 MPa, a compressive strength of 270 MPa and a density of approximately 2300 kg/m3 was achieved that closely corresponds to that of compact bone or a tooth. As these TMA bodies could also be cut into various forms, they are considered a promising biomaterial for use as artificial bone in the regeneration of natural bone, or to provide reinforcement of bone junctions in dental and orthopedic surgery.