Preparation of Microstructure-Controlled Porous Hydroxyapatite-β-Tricalcium Phosphate Composites by Reaction Sintering

Abstract

Microstructure-controlled ceramic composites composed of various ratios of hydroxyapatite (HAp) and tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) were formed by reaction sintering of HAp and brushite. Analyses of the reaction by TG, DTA and other methods revealed that several reaction steps were involved. It was found that β-TCP formed at about 800°C and that initial stage sintering of HAp was enhanced by the presence of brushite. The ratio of β-TCP to HAp in the product can be controlled by changing the concentration of brushite in the initial mixture.