Synthesis of Pure Hydroxyapatite and the Effect of Synthesis Conditions on its Yield, Crystallinity, Morphology and Mean Particle Size

Abstract

Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is a calcium phosphate compound with the chemical formula Ca5(PO4)3OH. This compound is especially significant in biomedical applications since it resembles the mineral constituents of the hard tissue in the human body. Its biocompatibility, castability, and sinterability make it a very attractive material for simulating bones and therefore for implantations. The objective of this study was to produce HAP with a high purity and to determine quantitatively the exact percentage of HAP in the synthesized powder. Hydrothermal methods have been used to produce HAP. In the present work, Hydroxyapatite powder was produced using the chemical precipitation method in a batch and semi‐batch modes of operation. The effect of temperature, pH, and reactant addition rates on the mean particle size was studied. Results showed a maximum in the mean particle size at pH 9, while a minimum was observed at around 45°C. As the reactant addition rate increased the mean particle size increased as well. The purity of the obtained powder was characterized using both quantitative and qualitative techniques. The quantitative results were performed using the powerful Rietveld refinement method. The quantitative results were obtained for three samples. Results showed that pure HAP was produced at a temperature of 85°C, pH 9 and reactant addition rate of 1.3 mL/min.