A comparison of the degradation behaviour of 3D printed PDLGA scaffolds incorporating bioglass or biosilica

Silica incorporation into biomaterials, such as Bioglass and Si-substituted calcium phosphate ceramics has received significant attention in bone tissue engineering over the last few decades. This study aims to explore dissolution behaviour of natural biosilica isolated from a freshwater diatom, Cyclotella meneghiniana, that been incorporated 3D printed poly (DL-lactide -co – glycolide) (PDLGA) scaffolds using extrusion additive manufacturing. In study, two different dry weight percentage (1 wt% & 5 wt%) diatom-silica were PDLGA then degraded buffered saline (PBS) cell free media. addition, pure used control groups. The degradation was performed 26-weeks. release rate Si4+ ions diatom-PDLGA found increase exponentially with respect time. compressive strength also measured Diatom–PDLGA maintain their for longer than either or scaffolds. 13C NMR data showed diatom containing had less bioglass-containing at comparable time-points. Overall, Diatom-PDLGA have more desirable physiochemical properties repair compared Bioglass.