Preliminary investigations of polylactide-based nanocomposites as potential materials for bone cells proliferation

Nanocomposite materials can be used in many application. In this study polymer–based nanocomposites modified with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and ceramic silica nanoparticles (nSiO2) were used. Size and shape of nanoparticles were observed using transmission electron microscope (TEM). It was shown that, this parameter changes during mixing of nanoparticles with solvent or polymer solution. Dispersion of nanoparticles depends on their chemical composition. The CNTs are more compatible with polymer (PLDL) than nSiO2. Nanoparticles influence rheological parameters of the polymer solution (increase of viscosity). Distribution of nanoparticles within the polymer matrix was determined using DLS method. Nanocomposites in the form of thin foils were used for mechanical tests which show that small amount of nanoparticles increases tensile strength (Rm) and Young’s modulus (E) of the material. The biological properties of the polymer-based nanocomposite materials like viability and proliferation were measured using osteoblast-like human cells MG63. Results of these investigations show that both types of the nanocomposites are suitable for promoting bone tissue for faster regeneration process.