Glass-ceramic scaffolds derived from Bioglass® and glass with low crystallization affinity for bone regeneration

This study was an attempt to tailor different properties of glass-ceramic scaffolds using a combination of two types of glasses with different weight percentages. For this purpose, Bioglass® (named, BG) and glass (named, NG) with low crystallization affinity, were used for the preparation of scaffolds by replication technique. The last glass acts as a glassy matrix for crystallized Bioglass® particles, as well as, it lowers the sintering temperature of the final scaffolds. The scaffolds were characterized using different methods such as XRD and SEM. Also, apparent porosity and bulk density measured using liquid displacement method. In-vitro degradation test was carried out for the scaffolds in SBF, supplying a maximum incubation period of two weeks. The apparent porosities and the pore size diameters of the scaffold increased as the NG glass percentages decreased, but, the bulk densities decreased as the NG glass percentages decreased. In-vitro evaluation test showed that, the diffraction pattern of HA became sharper as Bioglass® weight percentages increased, in other words, amorphous Ca–P rich layer formed on the surfaces of the scaffolds with lower Bioglass® ratios, and they need longer time to precipitate HCA crystals.

► This research is related to porous ceramic scaffolding materials, used for bone regeneration and tissue engineering.
► These research is an attempt to improve the fabrication of porous glass-ceramics using replica method, by introducing another glass with relatively low softening bone, where it act as a cement matrix.
► These materials are useful in the field of cell culture, due to their high porosities and interconnectivity.