CPC cement refers to Calcium Phosphate Cement, a type of hydraulic cement specifically designed for biomedical applications.
Understanding Calcium Phosphate Cements (CPCs)
Based on the provided reference, CPCs are defined by their key characteristics and function:
- They are classified as hydraulic cements. This means they react chemically with water or other liquid solutions to set and harden.
- Their primary composition involves one or more calcium orthophosphate powders. These are inorganic compounds containing calcium and phosphate ions.
- The setting process occurs when these calcium phosphate powders are mixed with a liquid phase, typically water or a non-aqueous solution. This mixture forms a paste.
- Crucially, this paste is designed to set and harden after being implanted within the body.
Key Features of CPCs
Calcium Phosphate Cements are distinct from conventional building cements due to their specific use case.
- Biocompatibility: They are designed to be compatible with biological tissues, allowing them to be implanted without causing adverse reactions.
- Bioactivity: Many CPCs can interact with the surrounding biological environment, sometimes promoting bone formation or tissue integration.
- Setting Mechanism: Their hydraulic nature allows them to set in situ (at the site of application) within the body's moist environment.
How CPCs Work (Simplified)
- Mixing: Calcium orthophosphate powders are combined with a liquid.
- Paste Formation: This creates a workable paste.
- Implantation: The paste is placed or injected into a site within the body (e.g., a bone defect).
- Setting & Hardening: The hydraulic reaction occurs, causing the paste to transform into a solid, hardened material over time.
Applications
While the reference specifically mentions implantation within the body, this points to their primary use in biomedicine. Examples include:
- Bone void filling
- Craniofacial reconstruction
- Drug delivery systems (as carriers)
In summary, a CPC cement is a bio-compatible hydraulic cement based on calcium orthophosphates, used for medical applications where in situ setting within the body is required.
