Selectively modified nanostructured fluorcanasite glass-ceramic with enhanced micromechanical properties

Abstract

We report for the first time, synthesis of mesoporous nano-fluorcanasite (n-FC) glass-ceramic from selective glass melting composition using controlled heat treatment and subsequent ball milling. Particle size analysis along with FE-SEM studies confirmed successful synthesis of n-FC particulates with interpenetrating lath like microstructure. XRD study established presence of fluorcanasite, frankamenite, fluorapatite, and xonotlite phases. Pore volume analysis and characteristic adsorption/desorption isotherms of n-FC particulates revealed mesoporous nature with pore diameters in the range of 3 to 15 nm. Interestingly, TEM studies also indicated polycrystalline and mesoporous nature of n-FC particulates and the corresponding ‘d’-spacing values were in good agreement with XRD result. FT-IR spectroscopy further indicated presence of characteristic bands at defined peak positions and crystalline nature of n-FC. Finally, nanoindentation studies indicated enhanced mechanical performance of synthesised n-FC. Overall, our study has established a successful route to synthesise mesoporous nano-fluorcanasite, with favouring microstructure for potential use as bioactive reinforcement.