A scalable synthesis of non-agglomerated and low-aspect ratio hydroxyapatite nanocrystals using gelatinized starch matrix

•A green facile synthesis method for hydroxyapatite (HA) nanocrystals is reported.•The method produces non-agglomerated nanocrystals with average size ~65 nm.•HA nanocrystals with low aspect ratios are readily produced.•The method revealed the potential for large-scale production of HA nanocrystals.

A facile synthesis route of non-agglomerated, well-crystallized and low-aspect ratio hydroxyapatite nanocrystals in large quantities was introduced. This synthesis route is a modified co-precipitation process using toxic-free, gelatinized starch matrix without any surfactants. The route has the capacity for scale-up of production and the product is as biocompatible and bioactive as traditional nanohydroxyapatite. It also has a potential for producing other precipitated ceramic nanoparticles with significantly reduced agglomeration and aspect ratio.