Synthesis and characterization of bioactive forsterite nanopowder

Forsterite ceramic is a new bioceramic with good biocompatibility. However, the degradation rate of forsterite ceramic is extremely low, and the apatite-formation ability is also poor. On the other hand, nanostructured bioceramics are expected to have better bioactivity than coarser crystals. The aim of this work was preparation, characterization and bioactivity evaluation of forsterite nanopowder. Forsterite nanopowder was synthesized by the sol–gel process. Bioactivity evaluation was preformed by immersing the forsterite powder in the simulated body fluid (SBF) and apatite formation on the surface of the immersed forsterite nanopowders was investigated. Results showed the particle size of pure forsterite was 25–45 nm. During immersion in SBF, the dissolution rate of the forsterite nanopowder was higher than conventional forsterite powders and apatite was formed after soaking for 14 days. Our study indicated that forsterite nanopowder unlike micron-sized forsterite possessed apatite-formation ability and might be used for preparation of new biomaterials.