Development of a Ce-doped hydroxyapatite–sodium alginate biocomposite for bone and dental implants

Abstract

Biomaterials must be biocompatible and provide excellent mechanical strength when used as bone and dental implants. To enhance the physical, mechanical and biological properties, a unique cerium-doped hydroxyapatite–sodium alginate (Ce–HAp–SA) biocomposite was synthesized using the wet precipitation method. The XRD patterns of the pristine and doped samples matched well with hydroxyapatite (HAp) and the appearance of characteristic peaks of HAp in the FTIR spectra confirmed the successful synthesis of HAp and Ce–HA–SA. The SEM micrographs clearly showed the presence of pores in the doped samples, while a density of 3.0 g cm⁻³ was obtained. The maximum microhardness of 27.5 GPa was achieved in the 2 wt% Ce-doped sample. The anti-bacterial activity of the HAp–SA composite increases as the Ce concentration increases. A 37 day ion release test in simulated body fluid (SBF) verified that no Ce ions leached under physiological conditions. The results showed that the Ce–HAp–SA composite could be a promising material for bone and teeth implants, because of its excellent physical, mechanical and biological properties.