Ultra-thin flexible hydroxyapatite sheet
- Kinki University Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology

　 A research team led by Professor Shigeki Hontsu from the Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology at Kinki University and a team from Osaka Dental University have developed ultra-thin, biocompatible films made from hydroxyapatite. Typically apatite ceramics resists bending, but the hydroxyapatite film successfully developed by Professor Hontsu’s team in 2007 is the first of its kind in the world. Due to its ultra-thinness and flexibility, it has the potential to be used for many applications in the fields of dentistry such as to prevent cavities and restore the surface of enamel. The research team and pharmaceutical firms are currently undertaking further research, working towards commercial applications of this development. Professor Hontsu and his research team have applied for a patent for its dental applications.