This study aimed to investigate the processing parameters and biocompatibility of a novel biphasic dicalcium silicate (C₂S) cement. Biphasic α´L + β-C₂Sss was synthesized by solid-state processing, and was used as a raw material to prepare the cement. In vitro bioactivity and biocompatibility studies were assessed by soaking the cement samples in simulated body fluid (SBF) and human adipose stem cell cultures. Two critical-sized defects of 6 mm Ø were created in 15 NZ tibias. A porous cement made of the high temperature forms of C₂S, with a low phosphorous substitution level, was produced. An apatite-like layer covered the cement's surface after soaking in SBF. The cell attachment test showed that α´L + β-C₂Sss supported cells sticking and spreading after 24 h of culture. The cement paste (55.86 ± 0.23) obtained higher bone-to-implant contact (BIC) percentage values (better quality, closer contact) in the histomorphometric analysis, and defect closure was significant compared to the control group (plastic). The residual material volume of the porous cement was 35.42 ± 2.08% of the initial value. The highest BIC and bone formation percentages were obtained on day 60. These results suggest that the cement paste is advantageous for initial bone regeneration.
Keywords: bioactivity; biocompatibility; bone cement; dicalcium silicate; implant surface.