Synthesis of cellulose–nanohydroxyapatite composite in 1-n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride

In this study cellulose–nanohydroxyapatite composite was fabricated for bone tissue engineering applications. In this composite a natural biopolymer was reinforced with bioactive nanohydroxyapatite for replacement or healing of bone. The ionic liquid 1-n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (BmimCl) was used for dissolution of cellulose. Nanohydroxyapatite (n-HAp) powder was characterized by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FT-infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) as well as MTT assay of nanocomposite was conducted to assess the thermal stability and cytotoxicity of the samples. The results of XRD showed the formation of hydroxyapatite crystals and also SEM images indicated that n-HAp powder was nanocrystalline. The composite was thermally less stable than native cellulose. Also native cellulose had higher decomposition rate and mass loss. Results of biological test showed that the samples were biocompatible with no toxicity. Also, SEM observations demonstrated that human osteoblast cells can attach to the surface of the nanocomposite samples and this composite can be used as bone tissue engineering.