Effect of albumin on the growth characteristics of hydroxyapatite coatings on alumina substrates

A potent biomolecule, egg albumin (EA), has been used in the biomimetic coating of hydroxyapatite (HAp) on alpha-Al2O3 substrate. The same experiment was repeated without using EA and the results have been compared. In both cases, the substrates were incubated up to 6 days in SBF (simulated body fluid) at 37 degrees C with a periodic replacement by freshly prepared SBF at 48-h intervals. The presence of EA influenced the growth and morphology of HAp crystals. Without EA, the HAp coating comprises irregular-shaped, serrated-edged plates whereas with EA, thick and regular-edged HAp crystal plates were observed on the alpha-Al2O3 substrate.