Preparation of Hydroxyapatite Scaffolds from Cockle Shell for Bone repair

Abstract

Background: There is a growing demand for effective bone repair materials to replace and reduce the import of materials from abroad, utilizing waste materials from natural resources in Thailand. The goal is to create medical devices and develop inventions into innovations that can be commercialized.

Objectives: This study aimed to prepare hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds using a solid-state reaction with raw materials of CaCO3 and NH4H2PO4.

Materials and Method: Scaffolds were synthesized under two conditions with sintering temperatures ranging from 1100 to 1300°C for 2 hours. The phase contents, physical, and mechanical properties were investigated. Additionally, to evaluate the maximum HA phase content, each condition was assessed in the subcutaneous soft tissue of laboratory rats over 7, 30, and 90 days. Characterization techniques included XRD, SEM, porosity analysis, bending strength testing, hardness measurement, and histological studies using optical microscopy.

Results: The findings indicated that the scaffolds sintered at 1300°C for 2 hours (Condition 2) had the highest HA content. After 90 days, the scaffold’s reaction with soft tissues showed mild inflammation and good tissue compatibility due to the high HA content.

Conclusion: Our results conclude that HA scaffolds prepared from cockle shells have potential for use as bone grafts, as the samples were found to be nontoxic and biocompatible with soft tissues.