Effect of pH in Morphological Properties of Brushite Microstructures Synthesized by Precipitation Method

Brushite microstructures with different morphologies were synthesized by precipitation method using a mixture of calcium lactate, potassium phosphate and potassium hydroxide as precursors. Potassium hydroxide was variation factor in synthesis process. This factor has an influence on morphology of nanostructures, changing from microplates to microfibers. On the other hand, bioceramic composites were obtained with brushite microstructures, using a mixture of brushite powders and gelatin. The amount of gelatin was added in different proportions. Brushite microplates and microfibers, with lengths in the order of micrometers, were obtained; the surface of microstructures is smooth and with well-defined edges. According to studies by XRD and FTIR, microstructures show a preferential crystalline growth. For bioceramic composites an effect of brushite microstructures was observed in compression test. Compounds with a greater amount of organic phase and microfibers show a greater resistance as compared to those formed by microplates. This value is in the range of human trabecular bone. This work presents a new route of synthesis to control morphology of brushite microstructures, as well as an improvement in mechanical properties of based brushite composites.