MgO-Na2O-P2O5-Based Sintering Additives for Tricalcium Phosphate Bioceramics

Effects of MgO–Na2O–P2O5‐based sintering additives on densification, microstructure, hardness, compression strength, and biodegradability of β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) ceramics were studied. Three additive compositions were prepared and introduced into β‐TCP. Uniaxially compacted ceramic structures, sintered at 1250°C in air, were characterized. Scanning electron microscopy was used to study the microstructure. The X‐ray diffraction technique was used for phase analysis. Results showed that these additives modified the microstructure and improved the sintered density and mechanical properties. An increase of 9% in density, 40% in hardness and 38% in compression strength were achieved. Biodegradation analysis revealed that these additives could tailor the rate of resorption and hardness degradation of β‐TCP.