Hydroxyapatite-zirconia composites prepared by precipitation method.

Chemical routes to prepare ceramic precursor powders are frequently envisaged, especially when the aspects related to the microstructure are important and need to be controlled. An understanding of which parameters of synthesis and thermal treatment can influence the mechanical properties of hydroxyapatite compounds is essential for the production of such materials. Hydroxyapatite-zirconia composites have been prepared, in this study, by a precipitation method. This led to the formation of homogeneous powders with a very defined particle-size distribution. Ceramic pellets prepared from these powders were easily compacted and sintered without cracking. As expected, the presence of the zirconia phase improved composite densities and appeared to have an important role in thermal stabilization of the hydroxyapatite phase.