Microporous biocomposite scaffolds with tunable degradation and interconnected microarchitecture-A synergistic integration of bioactive chain silicate glass-ceramic and poly(ε-caprolactone).

This study reports, for the first time, incorporation of micro-fluorcanasite (μFC) chain silicate glass-ceramic particulates as a potential bioactive reinforcement for development of biocomposite bone scaffolds. Micro-fluorcanasite glass-ceramic particulates were dispersed in a systematic manner within poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) biopolymer at different loading levels. Biocomposite scaffolds were then fabricated through thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) technique. X-ray diffraction studies of μFC revealed generation of targeted fluorcanasite and frankamenite phases, while reinforced biocomposite scaffolds indicated presence of PCL and additional crystalline phases. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies revealed interconnected porosity, micro-architectural details and successful incorporation of μFC within PCL matrix, indicating supportive physiological environment for bone tissue growth. The biocomposite scaffolds upon immersion in Hank's solution for different intervals, further established tunable biodegradability of the scaffolds. Image 1 • This paper reports, for the first time, use of micro-fluorcanasite (μFC) chain silicate glass-ceramic reinforcement within poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) biopolymer matrix to develop microporous biocomposite scaffolds. • Microstructural, functional and biodegradability studies of the obtained scaffolds indicated interconnected porosity, enhanced structural integrity and tunable biodegradability a supportive physiological environment for the developed scaffolds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]