The effect of Cu2+ doping in β-tricalcium phosphate on the hydration mechanism of a brushite cement

Brushite cements show excellent biocompatibility and are therefore an often-used material for bone repair. However, methods to prevent inflammations after surgery are needed. As Cu2+ was proven to provide antibacterial properties, as well as other application relevant features, it is a promising additive. Concerning these factors, a brushite cement containing Cu2+-doped β-tricalcium phosphate, monocalcium phosphate monohydrate, and phytic acid as setting retarder was investigated with powder and in situ X-ray diffraction, isothermal heat flow calorimetry, in situ 1H-time domain – nuclear magnet resonance, and pore solution analysis. The influence of Cu2+ ions on the hydration kinetics of the brushite cement and the locations of the Cu2+ ions after completion of the hydration were the main questions of interest. Heat flow calorimetry showed a significant retardation and deceleration of the hydration with increasing Cu2+ content in β-tricalcium phosphate. This effect can be directly correlated to the Cu2+ ions, as it was also shown for cements without phytic acid. X-ray diffraction showed brushite as main hydrate phase. Additionally, Cu2+-doped cements formed a hydrate phase not assignable by X-ray diffraction, which is assumed to be Cu2+ containing. Furthermore, Cu2+ was detected in the pore solution after the hydration, and no signs of Cu2+ incorporation in the crystal structure of brushite were found. [Display omitted] •Investigation of the hydration reaction of a Cu2+-doped brushite cement.•Significant retardation and deceleration of the hydration with increasing Cu2+.•Retardation and deceleration can be directly correlated to the Cu2+ ions.•No signs of Cu2+ incorporation in the crystal structure of brushite were found.•Residual Cu2+ was detected in the pore solution after the hydration.