Characterization of porous hydroxyapatite-alumina composite scaffold produced via powder compaction method

Abstract

Recently research on hydroxyapatite bioceramic material has been carried out rapidly to support the needs in the medical field. The study aims to develop porous bioceramic from hydroxyapatite Al2O3 composites. Porous hydroxyapatite Al2O3 composites were prepared with variation of the weight fraction of Al2O3 reinforcement and green bean starch space holder used as porous maker. The manufacturing process begins by mixing hydroxyapatite powder (200 μm), Al2O3 powder (55 μm) and green bean powder (200 μm) using a Ballmill with a rotating speed of 225 rpm for 1 hour. The mixture is then put into a mold and compressed in a unidirectional compression device at a pressure of 2000 psi. Green body specimens are then sintered at a temperature of 1200°C and holding time for 3 hours. The apparent density test was carried out using the Archimedes' method and the highest density was 1.95 g / cm3 with 41.915% porosity in the specimen with 25% Al2O3 weight fraction. The results of the compressive test showed that specimens with a weight fraction of 25% Al2O3 had the highest compressive strength of 1.01 MPa with a porosity of 41.915%. The morphology observation using the Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed interconnecting porous had been formed.