In vitro bioactivity of baghdadite-coated PCL –graphene nanocomposite scaffolds: mechanism of baghdadite and apatite formation

Abstract

The aim of the present research was to find out the in vitro biological behaviour by evaluating the bioactivity of scaffolds for bone tissue engineering and to examine the mechanism of baghdadite and apatite formation. For this purpose, baghdadite scaffolds with polycaprolactone and graphene nanocomposite coatings were fabricated using polymeric sponge and dip-coating methods. Results showed that regarding baghdadite formation mechanism, gittinsite phase can be converted into baghdadite phase by enhancing temperature up to 1350°C and helping Zr4+ and Ca2+. The deposit of Ca–P coatings on the surface and in the pores of the scaffolds verified the improvement of the bioactivity. Graphene in scaffold composition can affect apatite deposit formation and promise bioactivity due to its high hydrophilicity, existence of nanoparticles and great (Formula presented.) bonds in its structure. In brief, baghdadite scaffolds with polycaprolactone and graphene nanocomposite coatings can be promising outstanding candidates for bone tissue engineering. © 2020, © 2020 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.