Microstructural analysis and bioactive response of selectively engineered glass-ceramics in simulated body fluid

This study reports development of engineered fluorcanasite frankemenite-fluorapatite glass-ceramic materials for potential bone scaffold applications. A systematic approach was undertaken to selectively tune the glass compositions and process parameters towards developing bone mimicking crystalline microstructure and enhancement of bioactive response. Differential thermal analysis was performed to design a controlled two stage heat treatment profile to convert the synthesized glass compositions into glass-ceramics. X-ray diffraction studies confirmed the presence of fluorcanasite, frankamenite and fluorapatite as the predominant phases, where fluorapatite is anticipated to induce enhanced bioactivity. Scanning electron microscopy of the fractured glass-ceramics revealed interpenetrating lath like microstructure, responsible for mechanical interlocking of crystalline phases. Systematic pH study of the glass-ceramic candidates carried out in simulated body fluid (SBF) recorded initial increase followed by stable pH values, confirming bioactivity and minimal leaching. The results from our study therefore, establishes the promising potential of the novel glass-ceramic biomaterials.