Processing of novel bioactive polymeric matrixes for tissue engineering using supercritical fluid technology

The aim of this study was to develop a new process for the production of bioactive 3D scaffolds using a clean and environmentally friendly technology. The possibility of preparing composite scaffolds of Bioglass^® and a polymeric blend of starch and poly(l-lactic acid) (SPLA50) was evaluated. Supercritical phase-inversion technique was used to prepare inorganic particles loaded starch-based porous composite matrixes in a one-step process for bone tissue engineering purposes.Due to their osteoconductive properties some glasses and ceramics are interesting materials to be used for bone tissue engineering purposes; however their poor mechanical properties create the need of a polymeric support where the inorganic fraction can be dispersed. Samples impregnated with different concentrations of Bioglass^® (10 and 15% wt/wt polymer) were prepared at 200 bar and 55 °C. The presence of Bioglass^® did not affect the porosity or interconnectivity of the polymeric matrixes. Dynamic mechanical analysis has proven that the modulus of the SPLA50 scaffolds increases when glass particles are impregnated within the matrix.In vitro bioactivity studies were carried out using simulated body fluid and the results show that a calcium-phosphate layer started to be formed after only 1 day of immersion. Chemical analysis of the apatite layer formed on the surface of the scaffold was performed by different techniques, namely EDS and FTIR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The ion concentration in the simulated body fluid was also carried out by ICP analysis. Results suggest that a bone-like apatite layer was formed.This study reports the feasibility of using supercritical fluid technology to process, in one step, a porous matrix loaded with a bioactive material for tissue engineering purposes.