3D printing and biological study of PEEK/Alginate/CNT composite bone scaffolds

Developing novel scaffold structures that combine biological qualities with suitable strength and mechanical properties is a major goal in bone tissue engineering. In this study, bone scaffolds are 3D printed using polyether ether ketone (PEEK) in three distinct porous structures. To improve the biological properties of scaffolds, 3D printed structures were coated with alginate/carbon nanotube (CNT) using freeze-drying method. After construction, biological properties including biocompatibility and bioactivity were determined in simulated body fluid (SBF). Results of FESEM analysis showed 3D printed PEEK scaffolds, have porous, uniform and interconnected structure with appropriate pore size in the range of 321–378 µm. EDS and XRD evaluations demonstrated precipitation of hydroxyapatite (HA) and bioactive calcium phosphate (Ca-P) on scaffold surface which proves bioactivity of scaffolds. To characterize cell biocompatibility, an MTT assay was carried out. The scaffolds exposed high cell viability around 97% and no significant toxicity was observed. 3D printed PEEK scaffold coated with Alginate/0.3%wt CNT was found with feasible microstructure, bioactivity and biocompatibility characteristics for bone tissue regeneration.