Nano-size β-tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP) powders with an average grain size of 70-100 nm were prepared by the wet chemical precipitation method with calcium nitrate and di-ammonium hydrogen phosphate as calcium and phosphorus precursors, respectively. The precipitation process employed was also found to be suitable for the production of submicrometre β-TCP powder in situ. The sinterability of the nano-size powders, and the microstructure, mechanical strength of the β-TCP bioceramics prepared were investigated. Bioceramic sample characterization was achieved by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and density measurements. Powders compacted and sintered at 800, 900, 1000 and 1100οC showed an increase in relative density from 68% to 93%. The results revealed that the maximum hardness of 240 HV was obtained for β-TCP sintered at 1100 οC.

Keywords: Beta tricalcium phosphate, Bioceramic, Sintering, Mechanical properties.