Study on polycaprolactone/hydroxylapatite gradient scaffolds for tissue engineering

The present work examines porous scaffolds preparation methods by combining salt leaching, gas forming, solvent evaporation and phase separation techniques. The scaffolds are intended for bone tissue regeneration. It aims to combine the biodegradability of poly (epsiv-caprolactone) (PCL) with the osteoconductive properties of hydroxylapatite (HA) in order to create a composite which acts as a temporary support for bone cell attachment, growth and differentiation. Samples of different ceramic content were obtained. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDX), mechanical, hydrophilicity and degradation tests were carried out to characterize the composite. The prepared scaffolds have relatively homogenous pore structure throughout the matrix and the porosity was controlled by altering the initial volume fraction of salt particles and the amount of gas forming agents. The tensile strength of the HA/PCL composites decreased with increasing HA content, porosity and the technique being used. Future studies include bioactivity ldquoin vitrordquo tests (samples will be immersed in simulated body fluid-SBF-solution for 30 days at 37degC) and cell culturing.