Effects of nano-wollastonite (NW) on physical and mechanical properties of medium density fiberboard (MDF) were studied. NW was applied at 5, 10, 15, and 20 g/kg dry weight basis of wood fibers; the results were then compared with control specimens. Two application methods of NW were used: surface and internal applications. Density was kept constant at 0,67 g/cm3 for all treatments and tests we...

Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) that is based on α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) is considered desirable for bone tissue engineering because of its relatively rapid degradation properties. However, such cement is relatively weak, restricting its use to areas of low mechanical stress. Wollastonite fibers (WF) have been used to improve the mechanical strength of biomaterials. However, the biologica...

Scaffolds of PDLLA were produced to be implemented in maxilofacial surgeries inducing bone repair and regeneration. To prepare these scaffolds, bioglass (BG58S) was synthesized by sol-gel method, in order to be applied as osteoconductive dispersed particles in PDLLA matrix. Once presenting greater facility on parts fabrication, this polymeric matrix enables complex geometries production besides...

The mineralogy of an unusual calc-silicate nodule brought to the surfaoe by the 1902 eruption of La Soufriere volcano on St. Vincent (Lesser Antilles arc) is described. It consists of the crystalloblastic mineral assemblage fassaite pyroxene + grandite garnet + wollastonite + anorthite t calcite. The pyroxene is more aluminous (Al2O3 : 19.66 weight percent) than any previously described from te...