Kinetic effect of hydroxyapatite types on the polymerization of acrylic bone cements

The effect of type and amount of hydroxyapatite on the setting kinetics of an experimental bone cement based on poly(methyl methacrylate-co-styrene) was studied. The average molecular weights of the polymeric beads synthesized were determined by SEC and the average particle size was determined by Optical Microscopy. Three types of hydroxyapatites were synthesized in the laboratory and then characterized by ICP, FTIR and X-ray diffraction. To obtain more compatible fillers, the hydroxyapatites were treated with 3-trimethoxysilylpropylmethacrylate. Bone cements formulations filled with 0, 10, 30, and 50 weight % of hydroxyapatite powders were prepared and the kinetics of setting was followed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry. The presence of hydroxyapatite decreased the reaction rate and increased the degree of conversion, which could be beneficial for the long time stability of the implant.