Synthesis and characterization of low dimensional bioactive monetite by solvent exchange method

A method is demonstrated to synthesize high purity low-dimensional monetite (CaHPO4, dicalcium phosphate anhydrous) for biomedical applications by solvent exchange in a polar aprotic medium. Stoichiometric aqueous solution containing calcium nitrate and phosphoric acid was prepared and the solvent was exchanged with acetone, thereby to obtain the new phase. The precipitate contained phase-pure monetite particles having 10-20 μm size with burr-like nano surface growth features. The material obtained was found bioactive in immersion test using simulated body fluid and cell compatible in cell adhesion studies using L929 cell lines. It will be ideal for the use in bioceramics and bone cements.