A technique was developed for the radiation crosslinking of lyophilised demineralised bone matrix (DBM). The crosslinked demineralised bone matrix(DBM*) shows a marked enhancement in osteogenic potential in both the rate of new bone formation and the strength of the ensuing new bone. A further advantage of the crosslinking of the DBM* substrate in crosslinked collagen, is its increased mechanical strength and relative insolubility, ensuring it does not wash away upon implantation. The dry crosslinked DBM* and collagen mixture is stored under inert nitrogen gas, eliminating oxidative degradation and obviating the need to transport and store the product under refrigerated conditions, resulting in a shelf-life of at least five years.