Additive manufacturing of Hardystonite-Akermanite composite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of Hardystonite-Akermanite solid solutions for the fabrication of 3D scaffolds, utilizing advanced manufacturing technologies. The study entails the preparation of emulsions from molten Calcium (Ca) and Magnesium (Mg) salts within photocurable silicone/acrylate blends. These emulsions enable the application of vat stereolithography for the production of 3D scaffolds, which are subsequently subjected to a ceramization process. Zinc (Zn) is incorporated into the system in the form of ZnO nanoparticles. By adjusting the ratios of Mg salt to ZnO, Ca₂Mg₁₋ₓZnₓSi₂O₇ solid solutions are successfully synthesized, with the parameter x ranging from 0.3 to 0.7, all while maintaining a consistent single-phase composition. The results of this research highlight the significance and potential impact of the developed materials in biomedical applications.