In the medical field, bone substitutes are essential for the reconstruction of bone fractures. Injectable and self-setting bone cements like magnesium phosphate (MPC) are critical for minimally invasive orthopedic surgeries. MPC offers beneficial bioresorption, rapid setting time, and high mechanical strength, rivaling that of classic calcium phosphates. However, its paste lacks appropriate cohesion and proper injectability.

This research explores the development of biocomposite cement based on MPC with a poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogel additive. The aim was to enhance the cement's usability by improving injectability and providing finer control of its setting process. The ceramic cement was synthesized via the reaction of magnesium oxide with potassium dihydrogen phosphate in an aqueous medium. To explore the effects of PVA, it was introduced in varying concentrations as the liquid phase of the cement. Additionally, different levels of a crosslinking agent were utilized to establish experimental groups. The mixture of these substances formed a biocomposite paste with self-setting properties. Our analysis involved measuring setting time and setting temperature, microstructure inspection, phase and chemical composition, static strength evaluation, a qualitative assessment of injectability, and a cytocompatibility test conducted on human osteoblast cells.

Via this study, we developed a technology for biocomposite cement combining MPC with PVA hydrogel. This novel material was characterized by high biocompatibility, reduced setting temperature, enhanced compressive strength, and appropriate injectability. Finally, it exhibits considerable potential for medical applications, especially within the fields of surgical orthopedics and traumatology.

Acknowledgments: This research was supported by the Gdańsk University of Technology by the DEC-3/2022/IDUB /III.4.3/Pu grant under the PLUTONIUM 'Excellence Initiative – Research University program.