Abstract
A factor which is usually ignored in discussions of the induced crystallization of one phase by the surface of another is the surface free energy of the nucleus/substratum interface. Interfacial energies of hydroxyapatite (HAP), octacalcium phosphate (OCP) and fluorapatite (FAP) microcrystals against aqueous solutions, measured using a thin-layer wicking technique, were 9.0, 4.3 and 18.5 mJ m −2, respectively. The calculated low interfacial energy, 0.93 mJ m −2, between OCP and HAP provides strong support for the suggestion that OCP is the first forming phase that induces HAP crystallization in calcium phosphate precipitation reactions. Using the constant composition kinetics method, the nucleation and growth of OCP on titanium oxide surfaces were investigated. The interfacial energy calculated from the nucleation and growth data compared favorably with that obtained by thin layer wicking. Extending the interfacial energy approach to polymeric substrata such as poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and the radiofrequency glow discharge treated PMMA demonstrates, in predicting the ability of surfaces to induce mineral nucleation, the importance of the Lewis base parameter.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
