3D carboxymethyl cellulose/hydroxyapatite (CMC/HA) scaffold composites based on recycled eggshell

In this study, recycling of eggshell, which possesses valuable biominerals was utilized for production of nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite powder. Hydroxyapatite was then converted into 3D porous scaffolds by an eco-friendly method. For enhancing the mechanical resistance and improving the biodegradability of HA porous scaffold, CMC was used to coat the scaffolds with different concentration (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0% w/v) via infiltration method. The produced carboxymethyl cellulose/hydroxyapatite (CMC/HA) scaffold composites were evaluated for biomedical applications. The results revealed that the compressive strength of CMC/HA composite scaffolds increases with the increase in the CMC content up to 1.5% w/v. Furthermore, the results obtained from thin film XRD, SEM and EDS analysis after immersion in SBF solution for 28 days indicate the high bioactivity of the scaffolds. The biodegradability test points out that the CMC/HA are degradable naturally over the time; which is essential for tissue growth.