Applying the Alkali-Activation Method to Encapsulate Silicon Nitride Particles in a Bioactive Matrix for Augmented Strength and Bioactivity.

0582124 - ÚFM 2025 RIV CH eng J - Journal Article
de la Torre, G. M. O. - Tatarková, M. - Netriova, Z. - Barlog, M. - Bertolla, Luca - Hnatko, M. - Taveri, Gianmarco
Applying the Alkali-Activation Method to Encapsulate Silicon Nitride Particles in a Bioactive Matrix for Augmented Strength and Bioactivity.
Materials. Roč. 17, č. 2 (2024), č. článku 328. E-ISSN 1996-1944
Institutional support: RVO:68081723
Keywords : bioceramic * silicon nitride * alkali-activation method * combeite * bioactivity
OECD category: Biomaterials (as related to medical implants, devices, sensors)
Impact factor: 3.4, year: 2022
Method of publishing: Limited access
https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1944/17/2/328

The development of bioactive ceramics still poses challenges in finding a good compromise between bioactivity and mechanical robustness. Moreover, a facile, low-cost and energy-saving synthesis technique is still needed. This study concerns the synthesis of a bioactive material by growing a bioactive Na-Ca-Mg-Si-based ceramic matrix produced using the alkali-activation method on silicon nitride (Si3N4) particles. This technique simultaneously forms the matrix precursor and functionalizes the Si3N4 particles' surface. The optimal strength-bioactivity compromise was found for the composition containing 60 wt.% Si3N4 and 40 wt.% of the matrix exhibiting good compressive strength of up to 110 MPa and extensive precipitation of hydroxyapatite on the sample surface after 7 days of soaking in simulated body fluid. This innovative approach merging strong non-oxide binary ceramics with the versatile and low-cost alkali-activation method holds great expectations for the future in biomaterials.
Permanent Link: https://hdl.handle.net/11104/0352956