MgO–Na2O–P2O5-Based Sintering Additives for Tricalcium Phosphate Bioceramics

Effects of MgO–Na2O–P2O5-based sintering additives on densification, microstructure, hardness, compression strength, and biodegradability of β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) ceramics were studied. Three additive compositions were prepared and introduced into β-TCP. Uniaxially compacted ceramic structures, sintered at 1250°C in air, were characterized. Scanning electron microscopy was used to study the microstructure. The X-ray diffraction technique was used for phase analysis. Results showed that these additives modified the microstructure and improved the sintered density and mechanical properties. An increase of 9% in density, 40% in hardness and 38% in compression strength were achieved. Biodegradation analysis revealed that these additives could tailor the rate of resorption and hardness degradation of β-TCP.