Synthesis and structural properties characterization of titania/zirconia/calcium silicate nanocomposites for biomedical applications

Despite the great importance of nanocomposites in biomedical applications, some attractive nanocomposites such astitania/zirconia/calcium silicate (TiO2/ZrO2/CaSiO3) have not been studied before. In this regard, this work aimed to prepare these nanocomposites using a high-energy ball mill. Then, their powders were sintered at 1250 degrees C and characterized using FTIR spectroscopy, XRD technique and SEM. Moreover, mechanical properties were also measured. The in vitro bioactivity of the sintered nanocomposites was evaluated by soaking them in a simulated body fluid solution and then, examined by FTIR spectroscopy. Furthermore, the antibacterial behavior of these samples was tested against Gram-and Gram+bacteria by shake flask method. Finally, in vitro cytotoxicity was tested against bone-like cells. The results pointed out that the successive increases in CaSiO3 contents led to noticed decreases in mechanical and antibacterial properties of the resulting nanocomposites. Nevertheless, the presence of CaSiO3 was responsible for giving the sintered samples the required bioactivity and densification behaviors. Notably, all investigated samples revealed excellent biocompatibility behavior. Based on the abovementioned properties, these nanocomposites can be used in orthopaedic and dental applications.