Biomechanically Tunable Nano-Silica/P-HEMA Structural Hydrogels for Bone Scaffolding

Innovative tissue engineering biomimetic hydrogels based on hydrophilic polymers have been investigated for their physical and mechanical properties. 5% to 25% by volume loading PHEMA-nanosilica glassy hybrid samples were equilibrated at 37 °C in aqueous physiological isotonic hypotonic saline solutions (0.15 0.05 M NaCl) simulating two limiting possible compositions of extracellular fluids. The hydrated materials characterized both dynamo-mechanical properties equilibrium absorptions the physiological-like solutions. morphological modifications occurring described. nanosilica nanocomposite composition showed characteristics dry states that comparable those cortical bone articular cartilage, respectively, then chosen further sorption kinetics characterization. Sorption swelling monitored up equilibrium. Changes water activities osmotic pressures water-hybrid systems solute molarities related observed anomalous modes using Flory-Huggins interaction parameter approach. bulk modulus PHEMA-5% has be with values generated from rates are coherent difference between nano-composite modulus: lower differences higher rate solution uptakes. Bone benefits use tuneable scaffold biomaterials can “designed” act as biocompatible biomechanically active interfaces discussed.