Synthesis and Characterization of Tribological and Thermal Properties of PMMA/(MgO-Al2O3-SiO2) Composite for Biomedical Applications
نویسندگان
1 Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
2 Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
3 Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
doi
10.48309/chemm.2026.551937.2019چکیده
This study introduces a novel biomedical composite material made of poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) reinforced with a ceramic blend of magnesium oxide (MgO), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), and silicon dioxide (SiO2)—collectively called MAS. The MAS powder was prepared using a solid-state reaction method, with boric acid added to lower the required processing temperature and improve phase formation. After testing different heating conditions, calcination at 1,200 °C was found produced the best crystalline structure, primarily consisting of α- and μ-cordierite phases, as confirmed by XRD and FESEM. Once optimized, the MAS powder was mixed into PMMA at different weight percentages to create PMMA/MAS composites. These materials underwent thorough testing to evaluate their structural, mechanical, thermal, and biological properties. SEM–EDX analysis confirmed a uniform distribution of MAS within the PMMA matrix. The mechanical tests further revealed significant enhancements in strength and durability with increasing ceramic content. Thermal studies revealed better heat conductivity and reduced heat retention, suggesting these composites could be useful in medical applications requiring temperature regulation. In biological tests, the composites demonstrated strong antibacterial effects against Streptococcus mutans, eliminating over 99.998% of bacteria. Additionally, cell viability tests showed that the material could effectively inhibit the growth of cancer cells, further supporting its potential for both antibacterial and anticancer applications. Overall, the PMMA/MAS composites combine excellent wear resistance, thermal management, and antimicrobial properties, making them highly promising for medical implants where strength, heat regulation, and infection control are crucial.