Hydroxyapatite (HAp) for Biomedical Applications

Book excerpt: Hydroxyapatite in the form of hydroxycarbonate apatite is the principal mineral component of bone tissue in mammals. In Bioceramics, it is classed as a bioactive material, which means bone tissue grows directly on it when placed in apposition without intervening fibrous tissue. Hydroxyapatite is hence commonly used as bone grafts, fillers and as coatings for metal implants. This important book provides an overview of the most recent research and developments involving hydroxyapatite as a key material in medicine and its application. Reviews the important properties of hydroxyapatite as a biomaterial Considers a range of specific forms of the material and their advantages Reviews a range of specific medical applications for this important material