Graphene Oxide Incorporated Collagen/Nano-Hydroxyapatite Composites with Improved Mechanical Properties for Bone Repair Materials

We present the synthesis of graphene oxide (GO) via the modified Hummer method and nanocomposites based on collagen/ nano-hydroxyapatite (COL/nHA). GO was prepared by freeze drying the stable mixture of the components. Comprehensive characterizations of the properties of GO were conducted by X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectra analyzer. Effects of the incorporation of GO on morphology, phase structure, and wear resistance of the resulting composite coatings were evaluated in detail. FT-IR results show that the GO and nHA disperse homogeneously in the composite. COL/GO/nHA composites with high porosity were confirmed by scanning electron microscope and porosity test. By increasing the GO content from 0 to 4 wt%, COL/GO/nHA composites exhibited improved hydrophilic and mechanical properties. The cell viability and proliferation results showed that osteoblastic cells can adhere and develop on COL/GO/nHA composites. An outstanding proliferation potential was displayed by the cells in contact with COL/GO/nHA 4 wt%. The GO-reinforced COL/nHAs with high mechanical and bioactive properties are potential candidates for bone tissue engineering.