Preparation and biological properties of PLLA/beta-TCP composites reinforced by chitosan fibers

Chitosan fibers were introduced into a poly(L-lactic acid)/beta-tricalcium phosphate (PLLA/beta-TCP) matrix as reinforcement to prepare scaffold materials for bone tissue engineering with adequate initial strength and a feasible degradation rate. The structure and morphology of the composites were observed by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The porosity of the composites was tested by Archimedes' method. The mechanical property of the composites was measured. Simulated body fluid (SBF) experiments were conducted to assess the bioactivity of the composites. The chemical components of resultants on surfaces were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy ( FTIR). The influence of the addition of chitosan fibers on the pH value, mass loss rate and structure of samples during immersion was also discussed. The results show that the initial compressive strength reaches 16.07 MPa when the composites prepared have a porosity of 36%. With the degradation of chitosan fibers, an interconnected structure is earlier formed in situ throughout the scaffolds, which is favorable for new bone ingrowth. The compressive strength of the composite decreases flatly and still maintains at 5.28 MPa after immersion in SBF for 24 days. Meanwhile, the formation of a layer of bone-like apatites on the surfaces of the samples indicates good biological activity. It is concluded that the composites have a promising prospect as bone tissue engineering materials.