A set of sodium borosilicate glasses mixed with different modifier oxides, viz., Li2O, MgO, CaO and ZnO, doped with antimicrobial oxide viz. CuO were synthesized. The structural (FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM and XRD) and bioactivity studies of the glasses were carried out before and after 30 days of immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) under static conditions. Optical absorption spectra of all the glasses exhibited a broad absorption band identified due to 2B1g→2B2g octahedral transition of Cu2+ ions. Glass microstructure is analyzed using SEM images and XRD patterns to authenticate glass bioactivity (viz. to confirm whether there is formation of hydroxyapatite (HAp) layer on the surface). For further confirmation of the formation of HAp on the surface of the post immerse samples, the FTIR spectra were recorded. The spectra revealed some vibrational peaks of calcium phosphate. Solubility (weight loss due to immersion in SBF) percentage is found to be different for different modifiers mixed glasses containing antibacterial CuO. SEM results confirm apparent nodular calcium phosphate microcrystalites. It is observed that the addition of antimicrobial oxide has a positive effect on the bioactivity of glass and make these glasses as fourth-generation biomaterials, which are being extensively used to heal the wounds in the human body by facilitating the growth of soft tissues.
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