In Vitro Studies of Osteoblast Activity on Biphasic Calcium Phosphate Ceramic Surfaces

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) ceramics are widely used as bone replacement materials due to their bioactivity and osteoconductive properties. The use of biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) bioactive ceramics is based on an optimum balance between more stable phase – HAp and more soluble phase – β-TCP. β-TCP supplies surrounding bone and soft tissues with calcium and phosphate ions, HAp enhances biocompatibility and improves mechanical strength.1,2 Hence it is important to find an optimal ratio between HAp and β-TCP, to ensure the material replacement with the bone tissue during the implant resorbtion. Sintering temperature directly affects the surface area and microporosity of the material. Increasing the sintering temperature decreases both the surface area and microporosity