Structure–Function Interplay in Piezoelectric PCL/BaTiO3 Scaffolds Fabricated by Phase Separation: Correlation of Morphology, Mechanics, and Cytocompatibility

Bone regeneration relies on the coordinated interplay between mechanical and biological cues. Piezoelectric composites, capable of converting mechanical strain into electrical signals, offer a promising approach to stimulate osteogenesis. This study aimed to develop and characterize polycaprolactone (PCL) and barium titanate (BaTiO₃) composite scaffolds fabricated through thermally induced phase separation (TIPS), and to systematically evaluate the effects of polymer concentration and ceramic incorporation on scaffold morphology, porosity, mechanical properties, and cytocompatibility were systematically evaluated. The resulting scaffolds exhibited a highly porous, interconnected architecture, with 9% PCL formulation showing the most uniform morphology and consistent mechanical and biological behavior. Incorporation of BaTiO₃ did not alter pore structure or compromise cytocompatibility but slightly enhanced stiffness and surface uniformity. SEM-based image analysis confirmed homogeneous BaTiO₃ dispersion across all formulations. MTT assays and confocal microscopy demonstrated robust pre-osteoblast adhesion and spreading, particularly on denser composite scaffolds, confirming that the inclusion of BaTiO₃ supports a favorable environment for cell proliferation. Overall, optimizing polymer concentration and ceramic dispersion enables fabrication of structurally coherent, cytocompatible scaffolds. The findings establish structure-property-biology relationships that serve as a baseline for future investigations into the electromechanical behavior of PCL/BaTiO₃ scaffolds and their potential to promote osteogenic differentiation under physiological loading.