Effect of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube on the Microstructure, Physical and Mechanical Properties of ZrO2–CaO/Poly(methyl methacrylate) Biocomposite for Bone Reconstruction Application

Abstract

After bone implant, short-term complications can lead to a complicated approach to recovery, requiring surgical correction associated with additive risks, such as deep infection and double fracture. The development of synthesized biomaterials for bone replacement or repair, as well as the prevalence of osteoporosis, bone fracture, and bone cancer, is therefore of significant importance. This work aims to demonstrate the effect of adding multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNTs) to the (PMMA/ZrO₂–CaO) bio-composites to fabricate a new hybrid biocomposite system for bone recovery and replacement applications. Four groups of composite samples were produced PMMA/(0, 5, 10, 15, 20)% weights of ZrO₂–CaO and adding (0, .1, 0.25, 0.5, 1)% weights of (MWCNTs) to each group. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), surface topography by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and fracture strength tests were performed to evaluate the samples’ properties. A number of the most significant characteristics obtained through XRD exhibited a high degree of homogeneous mixing of the composites. In the examination, smooth peaks were obtained and the homogeneous distribution resulted in phase stability. A FE-SEM analysis demonstrated the presence of fibrous structures following the addition of MWCNTs, indicating that this approach would promote adhesion and healing of the tissue, as well as a fibrous arrangement that mimics that of natural bone. The results also showed improvements in mechanical properties by approximately 57%, 38%, 45%, and 6.5% due to the addition of MWCNTs compared to the version sample. Based on the experimental results, the study highlights the potential of these composites in bone reconstruction applications.