Nano-silica effect on the poly (1, 8-octanediol citrate) composite properties for bone plate application

Abstract

The continuous occurrence of bone fracture cases requires attention to solving the problem of meeting the necessary criteria for the bone fracture repair devices aimed at that purpose. Considering that, nano silica (SiO2) polymeric composite was developed for bone plate production. Bio-composites were prepared from nano silica which was developed from rice husk, and poly (1, 8-octanediol citrate) (POC) polymer which was polymerized from octanediol and citric acid. The composite was successfully produced by compounding and curing method. For optimisation purposes, the loading percentage of SiO2 into the POC matrix was varied from 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60wt.%. The current research focused on the optimisation of the developed composite as affected by nano silica loadings and distribution. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was employed in characterising the developed POC – Silica nanocomposites for variation in surface chemical structure. Thermal degradation properties were assessed by using Thermogravimetric analyser (TGA) while mechanical properties were ascertained by Tensile strength. Enhancement regarding mechanical properties was achieved through incorporation of up to 50wt.% nano silica particles in the POC matrix. Promotion of thermal degradation properties of the composite was evident with the inclusion and dispersion of silica nanoparticles in the POC matrix.