Optimisation of process parameters for fabrication of nanocrystalline TiO 2 –hydoxyapatite based scaffold using response surface methodology

The present study focuses on the application of central composite design of response surface methodology for optimisation of process parameters to develop a hybrid mechanically stable biocompatible porous scaffold. The scaffolds are developed by varying the composition of fish scale derived HAp and nanocrystalline TiO 2 powders. The effects of sintering temperature, dwell time on the porosity and compressive strength of the scaffolds are investigated. Various diagnostic tools (e.g. thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy /energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) are used for composition, phase conformity and microstructure evaluation of green as well as sintered materials. The desirability function optimisation study reveals that at 60∶40 (TiO 2 ∶HAp) concentration with sintering temperature of 1100°C for 90 min provides the maximum compressive strength of 78·5 MPa and maximum porosity of 33·5%.