One-step synthesis of a piezoelectric hybrid BNNT/BaTiO3 composite and its application in bone tissue engineering

Official URL: https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jmbbm.2024.106758

Nanomaterials with piezoelectric properties can significantly improve the applicability of polymers used in tissue engineering applications. In this study, we report the one-step synthesis of a novel hybrid piezoelectric composite comprising barium titanates and boron nitride nanotubes. This composite is distinguished by its unique microstructures, including nanoflakes, triangular boron nitride structures, and fiber-like boron nitride nanotube configurations, which contribute to its enhanced piezoelectric properties. The composite was incorporated into a chitosan-based tissue scaffold and evaluated in vitro. Electric-responsive Human Osteoblast cells cultured on the scaffolds are exposed to low-frequency ultrasound stimulation during cell growth. The biocompatibility, cell adhesion, alkaline phosphatase activities, and mineralization of osteoblast cells on the piezo-composite scaffolds were evaluated. The results show that the hybrid piezoelectric composite significantly enhances the properties of chitosan-based scaffold.