Abstract
The importance of polymer-based composite materials to make multifunctional substrates for tissue engineering and the strategies to improve their performances have been stressed in the literature. Bioactive features of sol-gel synthesized poly(ε-caprolactone)/TiO₂ or poly(ε-caprolactone)/ZrO₂ organic-inorganic hybrid materials are widely documented. Accordingly, the aim of this preliminary research was to develop advanced composite substrates consisting of a poly(ε-caprolactone) matrix reinforced with sol-gel synthesized PCL/TiO₂ or PCL/ZrO₂ hybrid fillers. Micro-computed tomography and atomic force microscopy analyses allowed to study surface topography and roughness. On the other hand, mechanical and biological performances were evaluated by small punch tests and Alamar Blue™ assay, respectively. Micro-computed tomography and atomic force microscopy analyses highlighted the effect of the preparation technique. Results from small punch tests and Alamar Blue™ assay evidenced that PCL reinforced with Ti2 (PCL=12, TiO₂=88 wt%) and Zr2 (PCL=12, ZrO₂=88 wt%) hybrid fillers provided better mechanical and biological performances. PCL reinforced with Ti2 (PCL=12, TiO₂=88 wt%) and Zr2 (PCL=12, ZrO₂=88 wt%) hybrid fillers could be considered as advanced composite substrates for hard tissue engineering.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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.
