Microstructural and mechanical characterization of chitosan scaffolds reinforced by calcium phosphates

Chitosan scaffolds reinforced by p-tricalcium phosphate (beta -TCP) and calcium phosphate invert glass were constructed and their microstructures and mechanical performance were studied. The composite scaffolds were macroporous and maintained the regularly oriented pore structure even when beta -TCP/chitosan weight ratio was equal to one. Both compressive modulus and yield strength of the scaffolds were greatly improved and reinforced microstructure was achieved. The salient difference in microstructures of chitosan scaffolds with and without glasses suggested that, not only physical incorporation occurred, but also the chemical complexation between chitosan and the fillers might be involved. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.