Structures of most tissues in the human body can be simulated with fibrous composite materials. A major problem associated with designing biocompatible composites for reconstruction of damaged or missing tissues is the ability to mimic such structures. The physical, chemical and mechanical properties of composite materials should be similar to those of the native tissue. Another very important factor of polymer-based fibrous composite materials, which can relatively easily be modified, is their surface microstructure. This surface microstructure depends on the way of preparation, type of polymer matrix and kind of reinforcement. This work was aimed to determine the biological properties of composites obtained from carbon fibres and a polymer matrix, which can be used as biomaterial in the reconstruction of cartilage tissue. Two types of samples made from short carbon fibres and two kinds of polymers were tested. The samples were prepared by casting technique. MTT tests were carried out in the presence of hFOB-1.19-line human osteoblasts and HS-5-line human fibroblasts. The results show differences in viability of living cells. Results of the work show significant differences in biocompatibility of pure polymers and composites with short carbon fibres.

Keywords: Polymers, Carbon Composites, Cell Response