Composite Bioceramic Ink HAp-PEG 6000-MgO: Synthesis and Characterization

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is biocompatible but limited by brittleness and processing challenges. In this study, HAp-PEG 6000-M gO composites were developed as candidates for printable bioceramic inks. Composites with different HAp:PEG ratios (65:35, 60:40, 50:50, 40:60) and 10-18 wt% M gO were synthesized and evaluated. X-ray diffraction confirmed HAp as the primary phase, with whitlockite as a secondary phase resulting from M g incorporation, while FTIR indicated hydrogen bonding between PEG and HAp/MgO. Scanning electron microscopy showed that MgO reduced pore size and improved densification. Hardness values of 5-6 on the M ohs scale place the composites within the range of enamel. The best-performing formulation was obtained using a HAp:PEG 6000 ratio of 60:40 with 12% MgO and H3PO4, with balanced pore size, structural integrity and hardness. Although rheological properties were not measured, shape and dispersion tests suggest preliminary suitability for extrusion-based processes. These findings highlight the synergistic role of PEG and MgO in tailoring HAp composites, supporting their potential as bioceramic inks for bone tissue engineering.