Structure and properties of bone-like-nanohydroxyapatite/gelatin/polyvinyl alcohol composites

Bone-like nanohydroxyapatite powders (b-nanoHA) were synthesized in simulated body fluid (SBF). The b-nanoHA, gelatin (Gel) and Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) were used to prepare bone-like composites (b-nanoHA/ Gel/PVA) at room temperature. Characterizations of b-nanoHA powders and b-nanoHA/Gel/PVA composites were investigated by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Bending strength and compressive strength of the composite were tested. It was found that microstructure of the b-nanoHA powders was whisker shape and its crystalline degree was low similar to natural bone, bending strength and compressive strength of the b-nanoHA/Gel/PVA composite depended on the mixing ratio of HA, Gel and PVA, and also PVA could induce the network formation in the b-nanoHA/Gel/ PVA composite.