Si, Zn-Modified Tricalcium Phosphates: A Phase Composition and Crystal Structure Study

Tricalcium phosphate modified by silicon and zinc was synthesized as a candidate for resorbable temporal bone implant having a controlled solubility and improved biocompatibility. Since Si and Zn are essential trace elements with stimulatory effects on bone formation, Si,Znmodified tricalcium phosphate can also promote bone formation. From XRD and ICP analyses, it was shown that up to 10 mol% Si and Zn can be incorporated in the tricalcium phosphate lattice without formation of a second phase. Changes in lattice parameters and unit volume of TCP as calculated by Rietveld refinement analysis indicate that Si and Zn substitute for P and Ca respectively.