Development of an Anti-Bacterial Calcium Phosphate Bioceramic Orbital Implant Using Local Calcium Carbonate and Nano-Zinc Oxide

The search for the ideal eye implant for anophthalmic sockets continues notwithstanding the availability of orbital implants for years. This study focuses on the development of an innovative anti-bacterial calcium phosphate bioceramic orbital implant. Utilizing locally sourced calcium carbonate and kaolin clay and incorporating nano-zinc oxide, the implant aims to enhance antibacterial properties and promote bone regeneration. The primary objectives include optimizing the material composition, fabricating the bioceramic using conventional techniques, and evaluating the implant's physical and mechanical performance. The optimization involves varying calcination temperatures between 800°C and 1200°C and varying kaolin clay composition between 15% and 20%. The mineral composition was identified and determined using X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD). The physical and mechanical properties of the developed orbital were characterized using three-dimensional chromatography X-Ray scanner (3D CT-XRay), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and universal testing machine (UTM). In this study, it was found that the optimum calcination temperature yielding the desired biphasic calcium phosphate composition is 800°C. Moreover, the developed orbitals revealed a porous structure with an average pore size of 198 micrometers. The tests for compressive and flexural strength showed promising results surpassing some of the characteristics of commercially available bioceramic orbital implants. Overall, this study sought to offer a cost-effective and efficient solution for orbital implant surgeries, ultimately improving patient outcomes through enhanced material properties and localized production.