ABSTRACT
This chapter gives an overview of the importance of nanostructures, including nanocrystals and nanoporosity, in relation to specific properties achievable. The properties dealt with in this chapter comprise bioactivity, anti-bacterial properties, microleakage, haemocompatibility, and controlled drug delivery. 8.1 Nanostructures, Including Phases and
Porosity for Specific PropertiesCa-aluminate cements and to some extent also Ca-silicate cements exhibit inherent properties not so often considered in spite of their importance in high-strength cement materials, anti-bacterial biomaterials, and bioactive materials. The specific interesting combination of properties for Ca-aluminate and Ca-silicate systems is the simultaneous appearing of bioactivity and bacteriostatic and anti-bacterials properties, as well as reduced microleakage. Other properties related to the nanostructure are the possibility to obtain translucent materials. Finally, nanoporosity with nanochannels below 5 nm, often in the range of 1-3 nm, can be used for controlled slow release of medicaments. The nanochannels surrounding all formed nanosize hydrates will also contribute to pressure relief. The observed haemacompatibility of the Ca-aluminate hydrated system will also be discussed.
