Preparation of cellulose-hydroxyapatite composites using 3D printing for biomedical applications

Every year, around 140 million tons of synthetic polymers are produced worldwide. Because of their non-degradability in landfills, traditional plastics made with petroleum-based synthetic polymers have caused considerable environmental difficulties. Aware of the growing concern, the proactive approach involves the investigation of polymers derived from renewable and sustainable materials for the production of bioproducts. This strategy provides a viable and novel alternative for reducing greenhouse gas and hazardous emissions, increasing energy efficiency, and reducing the use of nonrenewable resources. As a result, much study has been conducted on numerous types of biopolymers, examining their characteristics and potential medical applications. The results of this research show that cellulose is the most used biopolymer thanks to its biodegradability and various biological properties. To improve these properties, it is desirable to combine cellulose with biomass which bears important biological properties. The choice was the use of Moroccan natural phosphate thanks to the important reserves of phosphate rocks in Morocco, for the preparation of hydroxyapatite and combining them with the prepared cellulose, and then the elaboration of HAp-Cellulose biocomposite, by the method of 3D printing. this biocomposite will be used in the biomedical field.