Comparative studies on the bioactivity of some borate glasses and glass–ceramics from the two systems: Na2O–CaO–B2O3 and NaF–CaF2–B2O3

Abstract Combined FTIR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis have been employed to investigate the bone-bonding ability or bioactivity of some prepared borate glasses and their glass–ceramic derivatives from the two systems (Na 2 O–CaO–B 2 O 3 ) and (NaF–CaF 2 –B 2 O 3 ). The present study includes the mentioned FTIR spectral and X-ray analytical techniques before and after immersion of the glasses and glass–ceramics for 2 weeks in 0.025 M sodium phosphate (Na 2 HPO 4 ) solution. Also, the work extends to evaluate the corrosion behavior for specified grains of the studied samples (0.3–0.6 mm) after immersion in phosphate solution for 2 weeks at 37 °C. The FTIR spectra of the two glass systems after immersion show some changes in the vibrational bands than before immersion. The generation of the characteristic peaks at about 580 and 680 cm −1 after immersion confirms the bone bonding ability by the formation of hydroxyapatite phase. The X-ray diffraction studies show the separation of (CaF 2 ) which is known to be an efficient nucleator. Weight loss data show a difference in solubility in the sodium phosphate solution between fluoride and oxide glass systems due to the strong action of the leaching solution and ease of solubility of fluoride glasses than corresponding oxide glasses in this solution. SEM data indicate the formation of small rounded or nodular shape crystals which are characteristics for the formation of hydroxyapatite layer and complete agreement with X-ray data.