Abstract
In this study, functionally graded composite (FGC) was prepared using a high-energy ball mill by fabricating five layers of alumina (Al2O3), titania (TiO2), hydroxyapatite (HA), and iron oxide (Fe3O4), which were sintered at 1100 °C to create an FGC sample. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), and weight loss measurements were used to assess bioactivity and biodegradation after immersing samples in simulated body fluid (SBF). Also, the antimicrobial activity and biocompatibility of these layers were evaluated. Furthermore, their electrical, dielectric, and mechanical properties were examined. The results revealed that all sintered layers were bioactive, and adding HA and Fe3O4 enhanced this desired property. Also, S. aureus bacterial growth was inhibited by TiO2 and Fe3O4. Fortunately, the sintered layers showed no cytotoxic effect, validating the ICP findings that demonstrated acceptable biodegradation. Adding HA and Fe3O4 enhanced fracture toughness in another hopeful outcome, which is crucial for biomaterial efficacy and long-term therapeutic success. Moreover, the compressive strength of all the layers and the FGC sample was 191.7, 182.2, 171.18, 159.8, 142.5, and 171.1 MPa. Layers 3, 4, and 5 notably had a compressive strength similar to cortical bone. This means that implanting these layers into human bone will protect the bone around them from stress-shielding action. Finally, the successive increase in HA/Fe3O4 contents increased the electrical conductivity. Accordingly, the prepared FGC sample and its layers are attractive bone substitute materials.
Published Version
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