Effect of Starch Binders on the Properties of Bioglass Tablets for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications

Abstract

This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of SiO2–CaO–P2O5–Na2O nanofiber bioglass (BG) tablets using cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) as a template and starch binders. Three types of tablets are prepared: sago starch binder tablets, xanthan gum binder tablets, and dry press tablets (used as a control). The tablets are investigated for their physicochemical structure, mechanical properties, in-vivo bioactivity, and antibacterial efficiency using various characterization techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), XRD, ICP, etc. The results indicate the formation of a hydroxyapatite (HA) layer on the surface of the tablets after immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 28 days, demonstrating their bioactivity. FESEM analysis reveals the formation of HA crystals with different morphologies, including oval-shaped crystals in sago tablets and needle-like crystals in xanthan tablets. The binder tablets exhibit higher Ca/P ratios compared to the press-dried tablets. Among the binder tablets, sago starch tablets show superior mechanical properties. Additionally, the binder tablets display efficient antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria. These findings highlight their potential as promising candidates for bone tissue engineering applications.