Magnetic polylactic acid-calcium phosphate-based biocomposite as a potential biomaterial for tissue engineering applications.

This work aims the manufacture of injection molded polylactic acid (PLA)-based magnetic biocomposites, presenting an alternative approach to enhance the magnetic susceptibility of PLA-based biocomposites without resorting to the exclusive incorporation of magnetic nanoparticles whose long-term side effects are still unclear. Magnetic biocomposites were obtained by incorporating 5 wt% of iron doped biphasic calcium phosphate (FeBCP) powders into the PLA matrix and compared with similar composites containing 2 and 5 wt% of non-doped BCP powder, as well as neat PLA. The chemical, thermal, mechanical, and magnetic performances were evaluated. Biodegradability according to two sterilization methods used and cytotoxicity were also assessed. The composites with FeBCP exhibited a typical ferromagnetic-like behavior and presented a superior tensile strength even with low concentrations of FeBCP, when compared to PLA or non-doped composites, besides being cytocompatible. The presented proof of concept paves the way for future developments of new magnetic PLA-based biocomposites for biomedical applications. [Display omitted] • New generation of magnetic PLA-based composites preventing the use of MNP. • Magnetic BCP powders improved the mechanical performance of PLA-based composites. • Homogeneous distribution of magnetic BCP-based powders within PLA matrix was attained. • BCP powders improved the thermal stability of PLA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]