Hydroxyapatite

Naturally occurring mineral form of calcium apatite, main component of bone.

Core Principles & Analysis

• With formula Ca₁₀(PO₄)₆(OH)₂, it makes up roughly two-thirds of bone by weight and about 96% of tooth enamel.
• Plasma-sprayed hydroxyapatite coatings on titanium hip and dental implants encourage bone to bond directly to the metal.
• Because it is osteoconductive, new bone grows directly along its surface, making it a common synthetic bone-graft substitute.

Specifications & Metrics

• DENSITY: 3.16 g/cm³
• YIELD STRENGTH: 150 MPa (Comp)
• HARDNESS: 5 Mohs