Effect of particulate size on mechanical strength of Anadara granosa bioceramic

The Malaysian cockle (Anadara granosa) shells have a potential to be used as bone filler and bone graft for non-load bearing bone application. In this project, the effect of particulate size on mechanical strength of Anadara granosa's bioceramic has been studied. The influences of particle size on mechanical strength are tested in order to determine the efficient particle size of Anadara granosa powders that suits the load bearing application of bone. Green bodies of Anadara granosa were prepared from Anadara granosa powders with different particles size (150, 300 and 600 µm) and sintered at 700°C. The morphological characteristic studied using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the diametral tensile strength test was employed to characterize the effect of particulate size on the mechanical strength of Anadara granosa bioceramic. Result obtained shown that Anadara granosa bioceramic with intermediate particulate size and low porosity able to withstand high mechanical strength. Thus, it is suitable for cancellous bone substitute application.