Possibilities and limitations of preparing silica/collagen/hydroxyapatite composite xerogels as load-bearing biomaterials

The combination of silica and collagen was identified in natural composites and recently recognized to be a valuable system for the preparation of innovative biomaterials for bone substitution applications. The present study reports on the development of silica/collagen composites, investigation of the underlying formation processes as well as further interactions with hydroxyapatite as a third phase. The possibilities and limitations of the material concept based on the sol–gel strategy were screened and characteristic composition ranges were identified. The gelation determining the processing time is strongly linked to the pH of silicic acid and collagen suspension mixtures as well as the buffer used and collagen concentration. The templating activity of collagen for silica formation is driven by primary amine groups as suggested by biochemical analysis and scanning electron microscopy. A high solid concentration in the initial hydrogels is essential in order to maintain the sample shape during transformation into monolithic and compact xerogels. The presence of fibrillar collagen significantly enhances the compressive strength of the xerogels up to 200 MPa and strain to fracture of up to 11%. The modular concept of the composite xerogel formation process allows incorporation of further phases such as calcium phosphate phases or prospectively drugs for the treatment of local or systemic diseases, opening large perspectives for the development of multifunctional bone implants.

► Sol–gel silica, collagen, and HAp form a load-bearing bone substitution material.
► pH value determines the gelation time and controls the silica–collagen interactions.
► Solid concentration must be high to maintain the sample shape during transformation.
► Addition of fibrillar collagen enhances mechanical properties of the xerogels.
► HAp should be considered as an active ingredient which can confer bioactivity.