In situ Biomimetic Synthesis to Produce Hydroxyapatite–Polyvinyl Alcohol Biocomposites: Precipitation and Spray Drying Methods

ABSTRACT: In this study, the hydroxyapatite–polyvinyl alcohol biocomposites were prepared using in situ biomimetic synthesis with two different drying routes: drying in oven and spray drying. Besides, the effect of the molecular weight of polyvinyl alcohol on structure of the biocomposites was investigated. Fourier transform infrared analysis indicated the presence of the polyvinyl alcohol in the composite structure. X-ray diffraction patterns showed that the change of the molecular weight of polymers or using different methods did not have a noticeable effect on the peak positions. Scanning electron microscope and particle size analyses showed that increasing in the polymer molecular weight decreased the particle size.