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Silicon nitride with titania, calcia and silica additives for orthopaedic applications

Guedes-Silva Cecilia C. (Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, São Paulo, Brazil)
Rodas Andrea C.D. (Center of Engineering, Modeling and Applied Social Sciences, Federal University of ABC, São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil)
Carvalho Flávio M.S. (Geoscience Institute, University of São Paulo, Brazil)
Higa Olga Z. (Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, São Paulo, Brazil)
Ferreira Thiago S. (Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, São Paulo, Brazil)

Titanium, silicon and calcium ions have demonstrated positive effects in bone healing. Therefore, this paper investigates the densification, mechanical properties and in vitro biological behaviour of TiO2, together with SiO2 and CaO, on silicon nitride ceramics to be used in clinical applications. The results revealed that the sintered samples reached high values of relative density and fracture toughness, non-cytotoxicity as well as good ability to promote cell proliferation and form a layer of carbonated hydroxyapatite on their surfaces, after immersion in simulated body fluid. The sample with the highest amount of TiO2 reached the highest value of relative density and the best results of cell proliferation and fracture toughness, indicating the great potential to be explored by in vivo experiments for later application as intervertebral devices.

Keywords: Si3N4, titania/calcia/silica additives, bioceramics, mechanical properties, cell proliferation