Modification of hydroxyapatite/gelatin composite by polyvinylalcohol

The strength of hydroxyapatite-gelatin nanocomposites is limited by the gelatin phases. By using a hydrophilic polymer (polyvinylalcohol), the gelatin phase can be modified without altering the apatite phase. Cross linkage between polyvinylalcohol and gelatin was investigated by FTIR and DTA and good chemical bond formation was confirmed. The addition of 1 g of polyvinylalcohol for a sample of hydroxyapatite 10 g/gelatin 3 g ensured a uniform distribution of polyvinylalcohol molecules, resulting in improved toughness of the resultant composite. 14 refs.