Systematic evolution of a porous hydroxyapatite–poly(vinylalcohol)–gelatin composite

Hydroxyapatite (HAp)–poly(vinylalcohol) (PVA)–gelatin nanocomposite was biomimetically synthesized and characterized. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis of hydroxyapatite, hydroxyapatite–poly(vinylalcohol) and hydroxyapatite–poly(vinylalcohol)–gelatin composites show modification of hydroxyl, amide and phosphate bands as a result of chemical interaction of hydroxyapatite with the above composite matrices. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the time-dependent development of a porous structure of hydroxyapatite–poly(vinylalcohol)–gelatin as a consequence of nucleation at the HAp aggregate–matrix interface. A literature survey holds great promise for the above as scaffolds in terms of increased mechanical properties and bioactivity.