Synthesis of PLA/ MgAl2O4 Composite Using Slurry Casting Method: A Study on Biomaterial Properties

Abstract In this study, magnesium aluminate spinel (MgAl2O4) particles were synthesized at 500°C using the combustion method followed by calcination at 800°C. Subsequently, PLA/MgAl2O4 samples were fabricated employing the slurry casting approach. In this research, 4 and 8 Wt% of magnesium aluminate spinel were used for composite production. To analyze the crystal structure, surface chemistry, microstructure, and biodegradability of the produced composites, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), field scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), and pH meter were employed. The Rietveld refined XRD data revealed that MgAl2O4 particles have been properly dispersed in the slurry casted specimens. FTIR characterization confirmed bonding formation between the MgAl2O4 reinforcement and the PLA matrix. FESEM/EDX results indicated that MgAl2O4 spinel, with the sub-micron-sized particles, significantly accelerated the degradation rate. Also, the produced composite samples were placed in the body simulating solution for 4 weeks and the solution was ICP analyzed every two weeks. ICP analysis validated the bioactivity of the composites by observing a decrease in the calcium and phosphorus elements of simulated body fluid (SBF), while an increase in pH after four weeks indicated the degradation of composites. Meanwhile, the values of pH vary between 7.6 and 7.8, which is close to the pH of the human body.