Enhancing physical-thermal-mechanical properties of biobased ceramic composite utilizing natural beta-tricalcium phosphate, glass, and tricalcium silicate

Abstract

Eggshells, a sustainable raw material, accumulate in millions of tons daily after consumption and are utilized across various industries including food, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and cosmetics. Composed mainly of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) with a purity exceeding 98 wt%, eggshells serve as raw material for producing beta tricalcium phosphate (β-Ca₃(PO₄)₂). The addition of tricalcium silicate cement (C₃S) enhances thickening, ductility, and setting properties, facilitating polymerization and solidification through curing and hydration processes. Incorporating soda lime glass powder at varying concentrations (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 wt%) improves the mechanical and thermal properties of biobased ceramic composite. Higher concentrations of embedded soda lime glass powder have demonstrated increased compressive strength, reduced water absorption, decreased thermal expansion coefficient, and lowered firing temperature. This renders it a promising alternative for replacing and repairing materials in medical applications such as bone grafts and splints.