Investigation the mechanical properties of a novel multicomponent scaffold coated with a new bio-nanocomposite for bone tissue engineering: Fabrication, simulation and characterization

Abstract

Due to the vital functions of bone tissue in the body, any change in its structure affects the balance of the body. Following a lesion, the body may be unable to repair it, and bone scaffolds may be implanted to stimulate bone cells and thus repair lost bone. This article aims to develop a scaffold with ideal properties that can be used to treat fractures and injuries. The technique used in this study is a hybrid of 3D printing and freeze-drying. Alginate (ALG), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and bioceramic-titanium nanoparticles were used to coat electroconductive polylactic acid (EC-PLA) using the freeze-drying method. The prepared samples were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) for morphology functional group and phase characterizations. After coating the scaffolds with the freeze-drying method, the pore size was examined and correlated with the compressive strength values. For biological studies, a bioactivity test involving immersion of the samples in simulated body fluids (SBF) was performed for a specified period. The samples were then evaluated for water absorption, weight loss, and pH changes. Cell behavioral and antibacterial tests were performed to evaluate the growth of scaffolds in the body. Additionally, the compressive strength test results are incorporated into simulation and modeling analyses under static loading and micromechanical models. Finally, the circle-shaped scaffold containing titanium sample was chosen as a suitable scaffold due to its 78% porosity, 27% apatite formation, 75° wetting angle, 15% weight loss after 7 days, and 99% biocompatibility. Finally, the bio-nanocomposite scaffold can attach to the cell and then gradually degrade, preserving the implant's mechanical properties for the regeneration process.