Biomimetic vs. Direct Approach to Deposit Hydroxyapatite on the Surface of Low Melting Point Polymers for Tissue Engineering

Abstract

Polymers are widely used in many applications in the field of biomedical engineering. Among eclectic selections of polymers, those with low melting temperature (Tm m polymers due to the high processing temperature, reaching more than 1000 °C. Two non-thermal HAp coating approaches have been described in the literature, namely, the biomimetic deposition and direct nanoparticle immobilization techniques. In the current review, we elaborate on the unique features of each technique, followed by discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each technique to help readers decide on which method is more suitable for their intended applications. Finally, the future perspectives of the non-thermal HAp coating are given in the conclusion.

Keywords

• hydroxyapatite
• polymer
• simulated body fluid
• dip-coating
• tissue engineering
• crystallinity