The research work at the Faculty of Biotechnology was developed in partnership with the companies Pascoal & Filhos SA and WeDoTech

The Faculty of Biotechnology of the Catholic University-Porto just completed a research project which reveals that the bones of cod can be used in the production of bone implants and dental implants. The results of this project show that it is possible to extract compounds based on hydroxyapatite – a phosphate of calcium is the main component of human and animal bones – this by-product, giving an effective application in healthcare.

The conversion of spines hydroxyapatite is possible through a simple process of calcination at high temperatures (between 600 and 1250 °C). This method allows the elimination of the organic matter present in the spines, obtaining a material which is distinguished by it high levels of purity and crystallinity. Research shows that, by treating pimples appropriate solutions prior to calcination, it is possible to prepare materials with different compositions and addressed to specific applications. Tests carried out with these materials showed a high level of biocompatibility competitive with other commercial products based on hydroxyapatite.

A product also with environmental application

Besides the application in health hydroxyapatite may also be used in the treatment of wastewater, including the removal of heavy metals such as lead, or degradation products of organic pollutants such as dyes. Given that currently the majority of hydroxyapatite used in these areas is synthetic, the process developed by the Catholic University-Porto, from a completely natural source, is notable for allowing the use of a by-product feed. This alternative ensures in particular the reuse of phosphorus, an element whose increasing use endangers their availability in the future.

Thus, a by-product of the food industry can now be converted into a compound of high added value thanks to its diverse commercial applications. Developed in partnership with the company Pascoal & Filhos SA – specialist in the fishing industry and fish processing – the research project also involved the collaboration of WeDoTech, a company specializing in the implementation of innovative technologies incubated in Catholic University-Porto. CICECO (Centre for Research in Ceramics and Composite Materials), University of Aveiro also participated in some phases of the study.