Papers by Author: Matthias Epple

Abstract: Structural and mechanical behavior of thin hydroxyapatite (HA) films deposited via radio-frequency magnetron sputtering on AZ91D magnesium alloy was investigated. Nanoindentationwas employed to evaluate nanohardness and Young’s modulus of the uncoated and HA-coated AZ91 magnesium alloy. The HA-coated AZ91D magnesium alloy exhibited a higher hardness of 7.1 GPa and a higher modulus of 86 GPa compared withthe uncoated substrate revealing a strong load-bearing capacity.

Abstract: Calcium phosphate is a natural biomineral and therefore possesses an excellent biocompatibility due to its chemical similarity to human hard tissue (bone and teeth). Calcium phosphate nanoparticles can be precipitated under controlled conditions and used as carrier in biological systems, e.g. to transfer nucleic acids or drugs. Such nanoparticles can also be suitably functionalized with fluorescing dyes, polymeric agents, pro-drugs or activators. The small monodisperse nanoparticles only mildly influence the intracellular calcium level and therefore are not toxic for cells.