Preparation and characterization of forsterite (Mg2SiO4) bioceramics

Forsterite (Mg2SiO4) ceramics were prepared by sintering the Mg2SiO4 green compacts at 1350–1550 °C and the sintering behavior and mechanical properties were examined. The results showed that the optimal bending strength (203 MPa) and fracture toughness (2.4 MPa m1/2) of forsterite ceramics were obtained after hot treatment at 1450 °C for 8 h, which were higher than those of the currently available hydroxyapatite ceramics. In order to clarify the biocompatibility of the forsterite ceramics, osteoblast adhesion and proliferation experiments were carried out. Well-spread cells were observed on the surface of forsterite ceramics. In addition, MTT tests confirmed that the osteoblast proliferation rate was significantly higher on the surface of the sintered ceramics than on the controls at 7 days (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that forsterite ceramics possess good biocompatibility and mechanical properties and might be suitable for potential application like bone implant material.