Biofilms of cellulose and hydroxyapatite composites: Alternative synthesis process

A new biofilm of cellulose coated with hydroxyapatite particles have been prepared using a simple, fast and low temperature process based on a microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis. The cellulose used as matrix of the biocomposite was extracted from banana stems residues. The hydroxyapatite coating was performed using calcium nitrate tetrahydrate, phosphoric acid, and 1,2-ethylenediamine dispersed in a cellulose/water solution, with posterior microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis, for 5 min at 140°C. The chemical, structural, thermal, and morphological properties of the composites were investigated by X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Results showed that the methodology was effective to produce high quality composites, with good thermal stability. Cell viability tests indicated that the cellulose/Hap films were not cytotoxic.