Improved mechanical properties of HIPS/hydroxyapatite composites by surface modification of hydroxyapatite via in-situ polymerization of styrene.

High impact polystyrene (HIPS)/hydroxyapatite (HA) composites are potential biomaterials for bone replacements due to their good biocompatibility and adequate mechanical properties. At the present work, the surface of the micron-sized hydroxyapatite (HA) particles was modified by in situ polymerization of styrene (St), then compounded with HIPS. The effect of the modification of HA surface on morphology and mechanical properties of HIPS/HA composites were investigated.