Synthesis and characterization of hydroxyapatite nanofiber by chemical precipitation method using surfactants

We report a novel chemical precipitation route for the synthesis of hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, HA) fibers using surfactants as templates. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) reveal the characteristic peaks of HA. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and high-resolution TEM revealed the nano structure, crystallinity and morphology of the HA fibers. The morphology of the HA fibers after calcinations were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Br− ions were quickly replaced by the excess PO43− ions in the solution after the addition of cetyltrime-thylammonium bromide (CTAB). Meanwhile, CTAB formed a rod-like micelles. Precursors reacted with PO43− at the surface of CTAB micelles and finally formed the nanofiber structure.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► We succeeded in synthesizing hydroxyapatite nano fibers by a chemical method. ► The reaction temperature is only 90 °C. ► The synthetic hydroxyapatite nano fiber is single crystal.