Characterization of Some Bioactive Glasses and Glass-ceramics Prepared by a Hydrothermal Method

Abstract

Powders of different samples of bioactive silicate glass ceramics were prepared by a hydrothermal method (HTM). The thermal energy assisted method was applied as an alternative to ultrasonic and microwave energy radiation assisted tools. Characterization of the glasses was carried out by FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) absorption spectroscopy. The different crystalline phases and crystallographic parameters were explored using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis were carried out to investigate the thermal characteristics of the prepared samples. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron diffraction patterns (EDP) were performed to examine the internal microstructure of the bioactive glass samples. The hydrothermal assisted method is an appropriate technique to carry out the reaction in a short time. In addition, this method can modify the reaction environment to produce amorphous glassy materials after just a short time of thermal treatment. The sintered glass-ceramic materials prepared by such technique are characterized with fine size and more crystallized structure than those prepared by the conventional melting method. Fine structure leads to an increase in surface area which in turn participates to a great extent in improving compatibility and bioactivity of the materials.