Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is a naturally occurring calcium phosphate mineral with the chemical formula Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2. It is a major inorganic component of human and animal bones and teeth. Its applications are wide-ranging, encompassing multiple fields including medicine, environmental protection, and industry.
Medical Field:
Bone Repair Material: Due to its biocompatibility and osteoconductivity, hydroxyapatite is commonly used in artificial bone, dental fillings, and bone defect repair. It can directly bind to human bone tissue, promoting new bone formation.
Drug Carrier: Due to its porous structure and high adsorption capacity, it can be used as a sustained-release drug carrier, improving drug efficacy.
Dental Care: Added to toothpaste or mouthwash, it helps repair minor damage to tooth enamel.
Environmental Field:
Water Treatment: Hydroxyapatite effectively adsorbs heavy metal ions (such as lead and cadmium) and fluoride in water, and is used for drinking water purification or industrial wastewater treatment.
Soil Remediation: Improves contaminated soil by immobilizing heavy metals in the soil, reducing plant absorption, and thus improving soil quality.
Industrial Applications:
Catalyst Support: Used in chemical catalytic reactions due to its high specific surface area and stability.
Coating Materials: Used as abrasion-resistant and corrosion-resistant coating in medical devices or industrial equipment.
Other Applications:
Cosmetics: Used in skincare products as a mild abrasive or moisturizing ingredient.
Food Additive: Approved in some countries as a calcium supplement.
