Tricalcium phosphate

Tricalcium phosphate is an inorganic calcium salt with the formula Ca₃(PO₄)₂. Its crystal forms and low water solubility suit it to uses in ceramics, food, and pharmaceuticals.

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Calcium phosphate: A family of inorganic salts containing calcium and phosphate ions. Tricalcium phosphate is one member of this family, alongside salts with different calcium-to-phosphate ratios.
Beta-tricalcium phosphate: The lower-temperature, rhombohedral crystal form of tricalcium phosphate, used in bone-graft materials. It is the common bioresorbable phase used in many ceramic implants.
Bone graft: Material placed to support or replace bone during repair or reconstruction. Tricalcium phosphate ceramics can fill defects and provide a scaffold for new bone growth.
Dicalcium phosphate: A calcium phosphate salt with formula CaHPO₄, available in anhydrous and hydrated forms. It has a lower calcium-to-phosphate ratio and is often more soluble than tricalcium phosphate.
Phosphate: An ion or compound containing phosphorus bonded to oxygen, commonly the PO₄³⁻ ion. Phosphate supplies the anionic component of Ca₃(PO₄)₂.
Alpha-tricalcium phosphate: A high-temperature crystal form of tricalcium phosphate that can react with water to form calcium-deficient apatite. Its greater hydration reactivity supports setting calcium-phosphate cements.
Bone tissue engineering: The design of materials and biological strategies to repair or replace bone tissue. Its porous ceramics can support cell attachment while gradually resorbing during tissue repair.
Monocalcium phosphate: An acidic calcium phosphate salt with formula Ca(H₂PO₄)₂, commonly used in fertilizers and baking powders. Its acidic character and greater water solubility sharply distinguish it from tricalcium phosphate.
Calcium: A reactive alkaline-earth metal whose ions are widespread in minerals and living organisms. Calcium ions form the positive component of the salt and influence its mineral behavior.
Calcium phosphate cement: An injectable mineral cement that hardens through reactions among calcium phosphate powders and liquids. Alpha-tricalcium phosphate can serve as a reactive precursor in cement formulations.