Additive manufacturing a novel bioceramic bone scaffold with MgO/Ca3(PO4)2: Microstructure, mechanical property and controllable degradation behavior

Biodegradable bone grafts have gained considerable attention in the field of clinical research as they can be used to avoid re-surgery to remove scaffolds. We fabricated biodegradable composite ceramic scaffolds using magnesium oxide and calcium phosphate following the vat photopolymerization technology. We studied the effects of different magnesium oxide content on the process of in vitro degradation of the composite scaffolds and discussed the degradation process by comparing the extent of degradation realized in Tris-HCl buffer and simulated body fluids. We also explored the variations in the mechanical properties of the scaffolds during degradation. The results revealed that the composite scaffolds maintained the strength standard for spongy bone (compressive strength σ: 2–20 MPa) even after 28 d of degradation. Additionally, the strength of the composite scaffold containing 80 wt% magnesium oxide was comparable to the strength standard recommended for cortical bones (σ: 100–200 MPa). Controllable degradation rates were recorded, and acceptable mechanical properties were observed for these scaffolds during degradation. The results reported herein can be potentially used to expand the application prospects of biodegradable scaffolds.