Permeability evaluation of 45S5 Bioglass®-based scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

Permeability is a key parameter for microstructural design of scaffolds, since it is related to their capability for waste removal and nutrients/oxygen supply. In this framework, Darcy's experiments were carried out in order to determine the relationship between the pressure drop gradient and the fluid flow velocity in Bioglass®-based scaffolds to obtain the scaffold's permeability. Using deionised water as working fluid, the measured average permeability value on scaffolds of 90–95% porosity was 1.96×10−9 m2. This value lies in the published range of permeability values for trabecular bone.