Synthesis and Characterization of ZnO Substitute Eggshell-derived Hydroxyapatite for Biomedical Application

Hydroxyapatite is a key element of natural bone tissue and possesses good biocompatibility making it a desirable biomaterial in bone regeneration applications. In addition, it is commonly used in bone and tooth implants. However, they possess poor mechanical properties (brittleness and fracture toughness) which can be improved by doping or ion substitutions. The present paper aimed to synthesize and characterize ZnO substitute eggshell-derived hydroxyapatite for biomedical applications. Chemical and calcination approaches were employed in the synthesis of hydroxyapatite. ZnO substitute hydroxyapatite structure was achieved by co-precipitation technique. The samples were characterized for physiochemical and thermal stability properties using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential thermal analysis (DTA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The SEM analysis revealed the surface attributes of the samples (surface cracks, size, and shape of particles). The FTIR showed functional groups present in both hydroxyapatite and doped hydroxyapatite. XRD analysis revealed the crystalline structures of both materials. Thermal analysis shows the thermal stability of the materials. Findings demonstrate the potential of ZnO to be used in the development of hydroxyapatite-based natural materials with improved physiochemical and thermal properties for biomedical applications.