Mechanical, wear and thermal conductivity characteristics of snail shell-derived hydroxyapatite reinforced epoxy bio-composites for adhesive biomaterials applications

ABSTRACT

This research investigates the effects of snail shell-based hydroxyapatite (HAp) reinforcements on the mechanical, wear, and selected physical properties of epoxy-based composites. The exploitation of these properties was aimed at assessing the suitability and efficiency of the developed bio-composites for adhesive biomedical applications. Snail shell wastes were sourced and processed to obtain (HAp) particles of ˂20 μm. The bio-derived hydroxyapatite-based epoxy composites were produced using the stir-cast method by mixing the hydroxyapatite with the epoxy resin and hardener before pouring into the moulds where they are allowed to cure. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) of the snail shell hydroxyapatite particles were carried out while mechanical, wear, and physical properties of the developed composites were evaluated. SEM images of the fracture surfaces were also examined. The results showed that enhancements occurred from the addition of snail shell-derived HAp to epoxy resin in the developed composites. The results revealed that most of the properties gave their optimum values when 15 wt.% reinforcement was used. At this weight fraction, optimum values were obtained which include 43 MPa for maximum flexural strength, 40HS for hardness, 40 J for impact, 0.35 W/mK for thermal conductivity, and 0.07 for wear index.

KEYWORDS:

• Adhesive biomaterial
• orthopaedic
• Bio-derived
• hydroxyapatite
• biocompatible
• biodegradable

Acknowledgments

This work was supported through the AESA-RISE Fellowship Program [ARPDF 18-03], African Materials Science and Engineering Network (A Carnegie-IAS RISE network) and the DST-NRF Centre of Excellence in Strong Materials. AESA-RISE is an independent funding scheme of the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) implemented with the support of Carnegie Corporation of New York. At The AAS, AESA-RISE is implemented through AESA, the Academy’s agenda and programmatic platform, created in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD). The views expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the AAS, AUDA-NEPAD or Carnegie Corporation.

The services of Dr. M. O. Bodunrin of the Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, in carrying out SEM analysis are appreciated.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the AESA-RISE Fellowship Program [ARPDF 18-03].

Notes on contributors

Isiaka Oluwole Oladele

Isiaka Oluwole Oladele is a Lecturer, Researcher, and Associate Professor in the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Federal University of Technology, Akure with a specialization in Composite Materials and Polymer Technology.

Linus Onuh

Linus N. Onuh is a graduate of the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Federal University of Technology, Akure with a specialization in Polymer Composite Development.

Anuoluwapo Samuel Taiwo

Anuoluwapo Samuel Taiwo is a Lecturer and Doctoral Researcher in the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Federal University of Technology, Akure and Enhanced Composites and Structures Centre, School of Aerospace, Transport, and Manufacturing, Cranfield University Cranfield United Kingdom respectively with specializations in Composite Development, Polymer Technology, and Cementitious Materials.

Sunday Borisade

Sunday Gbenga Borisade is a Lecturer and current Ph.D. Researcher in the Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria, and Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Federal University of Technology, Akure respectively with specializations in Composite Development and Polymer Technology.

Newton Itua Agbeboh

Newton Itua Agbeboh is a Lecturer, and Researcher in the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, Federal University Otuoke, Ogbia, Bayelsa State, Nigeria with specializations in Composite Development and Polymer Technology.

Senzeni Sipho Lephuthing

Senzeni Sipho Lephuthing is a Lecturer, and Researcher in the Department of Metallurgy, University of Johannesburg, South Africa with specializations in Composite Development and Polymer Technology.