Tricalcium phosphate-Fluorapatite as bone tissue engineering: Evaluation of bioactivity and biocompatibility

Biocomposites consisting of β Tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) with 26.52% Fluorapatite (Fap) were elaborated and characterized in order to evaluate it potential application in bone graft substitute. Bioactivity was determined with in vitro tests by immersion of samples in simulated fluid body for several periods of times. The SEM, EDS and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy showed the deposition of apatite layer on the surface of samples showing a good bioactivity. However, after 6 days of soaking, the dissolution rate of Ca2 + and PO43 − decreased which due probably to the improvement of crystallization of the apatite layer. These findings agree with those observed after 6 weeks postimplantation of prepared macroporous scaffolds in rabbits. All histological observations of the preliminary in vivo study in the tibia of rabbits proved the biocompatibility and the resorption of the investigated bioceramic. In contrast, the implantation period will have to be optimized by further extensive animal experiments.