Hierarchically porous bioactive glass scaffolds synthesized with a PUF and P123 cotemplated approach

Hierarchically porous bioactive glass (CaO-SiO2-P2O5) scaffolds have been prepared by using nonionic block copolymer EO20PO70EO20 (P123) and polyurethane (PUF) as cotemplates. It exhibits a hierarchical structure with interconnected macropores (about 200-400 or 500-700 mu m), which provide the potential for tissue ingrowth and the neovascularization, and uniform mesopores (3.68 nm), which cause an increase in the specific surface area and enhanced bioactivity and release of ionic products. The ordered hierarchically porous scaffold has the advantages of both mesoporosity and macroporosity, which may find potential applications in tissue engineering and drug storage.