Preparation and characterization of chitosan/β-GP membranes for guided bone regeneration

Bioabsorbable chitosan/β-glycerol phosphate (CS/β-GP) composite membranes were fabricated through a relatively PH neutral and mild sol-gel process for guided bone regeneration (GBR). Their structural properties, morphology, and tensile strength were investigated. FTIR and XRD analyses indicated that there were chemical bonds between the CS andβ-GP. SEM analysis revealed that the CS/β-GP composite membranes had a porous structure both at the surface and in sublayers. Even though the incorporation ofβ-GP in the CS matrix decreased the initial tensile strength of the membrane, the CS/β-GP membranes were still fit for GBR application with their tensile strength of roughly 1 MPa. The concentration ofβ-GP was proportional to the pore size and thickness but was inversely proportional to the tensile strength of the CS/β-GP membrane. The present findings indicate that, based on its characteristics, the CS/β-GP composite membrane is a potential bioresorbable membrane for use in guided bone regeneration.