Microwave synthesis, characterization, bioactivity and in vitro biocompatibility of zeolite–hydroxyapatite (Zeo–HA) composite for bone tissue engineering applications

In the present study, bioactive composites composed of hydroxyapatite (HA) and zeolite-Y were successfully synthesized by using a cost-effective microwave-assisted wet precipitation method. The phase purity, functional groups, surface topography, and elemental composition of the composite materials were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), respectively. The XRD, FTIR, and EDX results confirmed the presence of zeolite with HA, demonstrating the formation of zeolite–HA composites. FESEM findings revealed that the particles had spherical morphology. The in vitro bioactivity assay using simulated body fluid (SBF) showed that the silica-based materials had the ability to support and accelerate the formation of dense layer. The cell viability of normal human osteoblast (NHOst) cells on the composites was confirmed by using cytotoxicity assay. In addition, FESEM results affirmed that the material supported adhesion of NHOst cells on its surface. In conclusion, the nano-structured zeolite–HA composites developed in this study showed good bioactivity and in vitro cell compatibility, and, therefore, may be considered as a potential candidate for bone tissue engineering applications.