Bending and Compressive Properties of Crystallized TCP/PLLA Composites

$\beta$-Tricalcium phosphate ($\beta$-TCP) particles reinforced bioresorbable plastics poly-L-lactide (PLLA) composites were prepared by injection molding. The nominal weight ratio of $\beta$-TCP was selected as 5, 10 and 15%. In order to clarify effects of the PLLA crystallinity on the mechanical properties, the specimens were heat treated isothermally. Results of differential scanning calorimetry indicated that the PLLA crystallinity increased with increasing heat treatment temperature. Bending and compressive tests were conducted on the specimen with different $\beta$-TCP contents and crystallinities. The results show that the bending and compressive moduli increased with increasing $\beta$-TCP contents and crystallinity. On the other hand, bending strength decreased with increasing $\beta$-TCP contents. Maximum bending strength was obtained at the heat treatment of $70^{\circ}C$ for 24 h, whereas compressive 0.2% proof strength increased with increasing heat treatment temperature. This difference is attributed to the difference in the microscopic damages.