ABSTRACT
Human bone is a classic example of natural hybrid composites with functional gradation and characteristic piezoelectric properties, which have significant relevance towards governing its various metabolic activities. In order to mimic its electrical transport properties, considerable efforts are invested to develop hydroxyapatite-based composites with piezoelectric phases. Such interdisciplinary approach towards the development of functionally graded materials for bone tissue engineering applications has two important consequences: the surface chemistry of the excellent biocompatible materials will not be affected and the polarizability and/or the electro-active response of the implant can be improved to meet such property requirements of natural living bone. Natural bone consists of a spectrum of combination of unique properties such as, mechanical and bioelectrical along with their functional gradation depending on the anatomical location.
