Analysis of the structural parameters of polyacrylonitrile fibers containing nanohydroxyapatite

The structural parameters and strength properties of a new generation of polyacrylonitrile fibers have been analyzed. These fibers, after being carbonized, can be used in biomaterial engineering. They are characterized by a high tensile strength of 31–43 cN/tex. An advantageous influence of nanoparticles added to the fiber matter on the degree of crystallinity has been found. When nanoparticles of hydroxyapatite are incorporated into these fibers, their degree of crystallinity increases by about 5%. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 101: 760–765, 2006