Improving the physical and optical characteristics of Zinc doped borate glass for bone replacement

Abstract

The presented study explores the potential of zinc-doped modified borate glass as a biomaterial for bone bonding applications. The glass samples were prepared using a melt quenching technique with a definite composition of (45-x) B2O3–24.5Na2O–24.5CaO–6P2O5–xZnO, where x = 1, 2, 5, 7.5, and 10 (wt.%) and soaked in SBF for extended periods to explore their suitability for bone bonding applications. XRD and FTIR analysis were used to examine the structural properties of the samples before and after immersion in SBF. XRD analysis of the prepared samples reveals their amorphous nature before immersion. However, after four weeks of immersion, the XRD spectra show a reduction in the broad band observed at 2θ angles between 20 and 35°, indicating increased crystallization and the formation of a HA layer. FTIR data demonstrates significant modifications in the spectra after immersion, including the disappearance of certain bands and an increase in bands related to (BO4) units. Additionally, the appearance of a new band at approximately 561 cm−1 confirms the formation of crystalline apatite. SEM images confirm the morphological changes, with a transition from a rough surface to a cotton shape, indicative of apatite formation. Electronic spectrum measurements (UV/Vis) were used to assess the samples' optical characteristics, showing that increasing Zn content decreases the optical energy gap, indicating improved optical properties. These findings highlight the structural, morphological, and optical changes induced by zinc ion doping and immersion in SBF, making it a more viable option for bone replacement.