Development and Characterization of Gadolinium and Copper Reinforced Bioactive Glass: An In Vitro Study

Abstract

Introduction: Bioactive glass, an innovative alloplastic material utilizing a matrix of silica particles combined with calcium and phosphorus, has been widely employed for the regeneration of bony defects due to its bone-forming capabilities and biocompatibility. Nevertheless, it comes with several drawbacks, including a slow degradation rate, low mechanical strength, and susceptibility to fractures. To address these issues, the present research was done to develop and characterize a novel bioactive glass incorporating gadolinium (Gd) and copper (Cu).

Methods: The bioactive glass doped with Gd and Cu were synthesized and subjected to characterization through X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and attenuated total reflectance-infrared (ATR-IR) analysis.

Results: The bioactive glass, enriched with Gd and Cu, underwent analysis using ATR-IR spectroscopy, XRD, and SEM. ATR-IR revealed characteristic silicate bands, while SEM indicated the presence of particles larger than 4 μm. XRD analysis identified the formation of Na₂Ca₄(PO₄)₂SiO₄ (Silicorhenatite), Na₂Ca₂Si₃O₉ (Combeite), and wollastonite (calcium inosilicate mineral; CaSiO₃). The crystalline nature of these compounds contributed to the favorable mechanical properties of the bioactive glass.

Conclusion: In summary, the creation of the innovative Gd-Cu-incorporated bioactive glass demonstrates favorable mechanical characteristics, suggesting significant promise for augmenting bone regeneration.

Keywords: alloplast; biomaterial; bone regeneration; copper; gadolinium.