A novel bioactive PEEK/HA composite with controlled 3D interconnected HA network

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a high-performance thermoplastic biomaterial which is currently used in a variety of biomedical orthopaedic applications. It has comparable tensile and compressive strength to cortical bone with favourable biocompatibility. However, natural grade PEEK-OPTIMA has shown insufficient bioactivity and limited bone integration. Bioactive PEEK composites (e.g., PEEK/calcium phosphates or Bioglass) and porous PEEK have been used to improve bone-implant interface of PEEK-based devices, but the bioactive phase distribution or porosity control is poor. In this paper, a novel method is developed to fabricate a bioactive PEEK/hydroxyapatite (PEEK/HA) composite with a unique configuration in which the HA (bioactive phase) distribution is computer-controlled within a PEEK matrix. This novel process results in complete interconnectivity of the HA network within a composite material, representing a superior advantage over alternative forms of product. The technique combines extrusion freeforming, a type of additive manufacturing (AM), and compression moulding. Compression moulding parameters, including pres-sure, temperature, dwelling time, and loading method together with HA microstructure were optimized by experimentation for successful biocomposite production. PEEK/HA composites with a range of HA were produced us-ing static pressure loading to minimise air entrapment within PEEK matrix. In addition, the technique can also be em-ployed to produce porous PEEK structures with controlled pore size and distribution.

Jaar van publicatie:2015

Toegankelijkheid:Open