Mechanical properties of HAp–ZrO2 composites

Hydroxyapatite is a well-known and valuable implant material with bioactive properties. Full utilisation of the unique properties of hydroxyapatite ceramics is, however, possible only after its proper reinforcement, i.e., by preparation of composites. In the present work zirconia reinforced hydroxyapatite composites were obtained by hot pressing method. The reinforcing phase in the form of ZrO2 particles was selected due to the satisfactory biocompatibility of ZrO2 and also because of its exceptional mechanical properties.Our investigations were aimed at assessing the influence of varying ZrO2 on the phase composition and mechanical properties of HAp–ZrO2 composites. In order to produce dense sinters, we used three types of initial zirconia powders which differed in morphology and contents of the tetragonal and monoclinic phases. We studied the influence of these oxides on thermal stability of hydroxyapatite matrix as well as on the phase composition and mechanical properties of the composite materials produced.