City Research Online

Abstract

The development of orthopedic implants requires bone cements that combine bioactivity with mechanical stability. In this study, 25% Akermanite/PMMA/25% Zirconia composites were fabricated using a bio plotter additive manufacturing process in three structural configurations, solid, 5-channel, and 6-channel--mimicking the lotus root's porous structure. Structural and biological characterizations were conducted using SEM, micro-CT, mechanical testing, antibacterial assays, and hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility analyses. SEM confirmed uniform phase dispersion and strong interfacial bonding, while micro-CT revealed porosities of 53 ± 1 % (5-channel) and 67 ± 3 % (6-channel). The 6-channel design exhibited superior antibacterial activity against E. coli (16 mm) and S. aureus (21 mm), higher cell viability, and the lowest hemolytic effect. Compressive strengths were 145.6 MPa (solid), 132.8 MPa (5-channel), and 120.5 MPa (6-channel), demonstrating a balance between porosity and strength. Overall, the 6-channel structure achieved an optimal trade-off between mechanical performance and biological functionality, suggesting its potential for next-generation orthopedic applications.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	This article is available under the Creative Commons CC-BY-NC-ND license and permits non-commercial use of the work as published, without adaptation or alteration provided the work is fully attributed.
Publisher Keywords:	Akermanite, PMMA, Zirconia, Bio plotter, Additive manufacturing, Bone scaffold, Orthopaedic applications
Subjects:	T Technology > TA Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) T Technology > TS Manufactures
Departments:	School of Science & Technology School of Science & Technology > Department of Engineering
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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