Ceramic-polymer nanocomposites advantages

Nanomaterials are often reported to possess snperior properties over their microscale connterpart. Moreover, natnral bone is a typical example of a nanocomposite material (see Section 15.2). Therefore, the design of a bone graft in the form of nanocomposite is perceived beneficial over monolithic and microcomposite materials. The main advantages presented by ceramic-polymer nanocomposites for regenerative medicine, as compared to conventional ones, are listed below ... 

Polymeric electrospun fibers are known to enhance the structural performance of composite polymeric materials [4]. Nanofibers made of materials other than polymers, such as metal oxides, carbon, ceramics, as well as composite organic-inorganic systems, have also been obtained and can be used advantageously in the field of nanocomposites, thus widening the spectrum of application of electrospun materials. 

In recent years, the search for innovative bone substitutes for developing this new therapeutic concept has concentrated on non-metallic composite materials, particularly on polymer/ceramic composites and nanocomposites. Such (nano)composites consisting of a polymer matrix and bioactive micro/nanoflllers provide specific biomaterials for internal bone implants with biological and mechanical properties tailored for a given medical use. These materials link the advantages of polymers (structural stability, strength, biocompatibility, desired shape) with properties of ceramics that resemble those of bone structure. 

---