Role of Inorganic Amorphous Constituents in Highly Mineralized Biomaterials and Their Imitations

A highly mineralized biomaterial is one kind of biomaterial that usually possesses a high content of crystal minerals and hierarchical microstructure, exhibiting excellent mechanical properties to support the living body. Recent studies have revealed the presence of inorganic amorphous constituents (IAC) either during the biomineralization process or in some mature bodies, which heavily affects the formation and performance of highly mineralized biomaterials. These results are surprising given the preceding intensive research into the microstructure design of these materials. Herein, we highlight the role of IAC in highly mineralized biomaterials. We focused on summarizing works demonstrating the presence or phase transformation of IAC and discussed in detail how IAC affects the formation and performance of highly mineralized biomaterials. Furthermore, we described some imitations of highly mineralized biomaterials that use IAC as the synthetic precursor or final strengthening phase. Finally, we briefly summarized the role of IAC in biomaterials and provided an outlook on the challenges and opportunities for future IAC and IAC-containing bioinspired materials researches.

Automated summary

This article highlights the role of inorganic amorphous constituents (IAC) in highly mineralized biomaterials. Recent studies have shown the presence of IAC during biomineralization process or in mature bodies, which heavily impact the formation and performance of highly mineralized biomaterials. The article summarizes research on the presence or phase transformation of IAC and discusses in detail how IAC affects the formation and performance of highly mineralized biomaterials. Additionally, it describes the use of IAC as synthetic precursors or final strengthening phases in biomaterial imitations.