Evaluation of the effects of chitosan/multiwalled carbon nanotubes composite on physical, mechanical and biological properties of polymethyl methacrylate-based bone cements

Because of some undesirable properties of polymethyl methacrylate(PMMA) bone cement, it is necessary to adopt a new strategy to improve its function. In this study, after preparing of chitosan (CS) powder and CS/multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) composite powder, they were added to the PMMA bone cement in different percentages with homogeneous distribution. The results showed that by adding CS/MWCNTs to the PMMA, injectability and setting time were increased and maximum temperature and contact angle were decreased, significantly. Mechanical tests showed that by adding 25 wt. % of CS/MWCNTs to the PMMA, the compressive and bending strength were increased, significantly. According to the results obtained from the bioactivity and cellular activity test, by adding 25 wt. % of CS/MWCNTs to the PMMA, apatite like deposition and extra cellular matrix formation were increased, significantly. Accordingly, 25 wt. % PMMA-CS/MWCNTs composite can create a new approach to improve commercial bone cements.