Preparation and characterisation of nano-sized beta-tricalcium phosphate with a PS template method

Beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) powder has been prepared by a polystyrene (PS) template method. The phase composition and microstructure were investigated systematically. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) patterns reveal that these powders are composed of Ca-deficient apatite (Ca9HPO4 (PO4)5OH) and β-TCP phases at low calcined temperature. As the calcined temperature increases, only pure β-TCP phase can be observed. Transmission Electron Microscopy images indicate that two different morphologies (i.e., rod-like and spherical shape) of β-TCP particles coexist in the products.