A comprehensive investigation of the 3D printed polylactic acid/yttria-stabilized zirconia nanocomposite scaffold for orthopedic applications

Abstract Scientific research in orthopedics has contributed to the development of advanced manufactured scaffolds with essential characteristics for tissue regeneration and function restoration. In addition, orthopedists are experiencing the most challenging issues when it comes to mechanical performance and biological characteristics. Polylactic acid (PLA) nanocomposites are predominantly utilized for producing scaffold structures in biomedical applications. This article focuses on developing 3D-printed PLA nanocomposite scaffolds to address these challenges and repair orthopedic issues. Consequently, yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) particles are used to reinforce polylactic acid, improving their mechanical performance and biocompatibility. The various weight percentages of YSZ, such as 4, 8, and 12 wt%, have been used to strengthen the PLA matrix materials. Furthermore, PLA nanocomposites are produced with a variety of infill structures, including cubic, octet, and tri-hexagon to improve biological performance, reduce material consumption, and optimize composite mechanical properties. The intermolecular interaction and degradation temperature (Td) of composite polymer materials were investigated using Fourier infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analyzer, respectively. Mechanical properties (flexural and compressive), density, porosity, and antibacterial properties are all examined on PLA and PLA/YSZ nanocomposite samples. It was concluded that 8 wt% YSZ reinforced with PLA polymer composite samples obtained great mechanical performance and biological characteristics. The flexural and compression of PLA/8 wt% YSZ were increased by 34.1% and 21.3%, respectively, compared with neat PLA. Field emission scanning electron spectroscopy is used to examine the structures and surface fractography of PLA nanocomposite samples.