Synthesis and Characterization of Fluorapatite Nanoparticles Via a Mechanochemical Method

Abstract

Nanosized F-substituted hydroxyapatite (FA; Ca-10(PO4)(6)(OH)(2) F-- x(x)) was synthesized with CaCO3, P2O5 and CaF2 as a precursor via a mechanochemical process. Different times of milling (10 min, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 h) and fluorine ion contents (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 percent of substitution) were used to prepare the products. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis demonstrated that FA nanoparticles with an average diameter of 15-30 nm (at milling time of 10 h) were prepared. Finally, the bioactivity of optimal samples was investigated in simulated body fluid (SBF).