A comparative investigation on the development of porous-structured Akermanite (Ca2MgSi2O7) via ball milling, sol–gel, and combination (hybrid) process for orthopedic applications

Abstract

Biomedical material advancements have resulted in an increasing demand for innovative and high-performance Akermanite (AKT-Ca₂MgSi₂O₇) ceramics developed for a diverse range of uses. This study conducts a comparative analysis and development of porous AKT structures, employing three distinct synthesis methods: ball milling, sol–gel, and a combining both processes. The objective is to evaluate the microstructural properties, porosity levels, mechanical strength, and bioactivity of the AKT. XRD study confirms the phase purity at 1300 °C, and FT-IR identified the respective functional groups present in the material composition. SEM analysis revealed the porous structure (~ 3–6 μm) of AKT samples, which had a uniform distribution. The results suggest that the combination process enhances the structural and functional properties of Akermanite. Biomineralization study reveals that hydroxyapatite formation was attained after 21 days. The achieved compressive strength is 193 ± 5 MPa. The outcome of the antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli test strains suggests that viable material for orthopedic applications.

Graphical abstract