Conversion from a Bio-inert Glass to a Glass with Bio-active Layer by Heat-treatment in an Oxidation Atmosphere

The surface of iron-bearing bio-inert glasses was modified by heat-treatment in an oxidizing atmosphere near the glass transition temperature. The modified surfaces after 7 days immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution were analyzed by means of micro-Raman spectroscopy, SEM, and EDS. All investigated glasses except for the glass with NC = 2.6 were able to form hyroxycarbonate apatite (HCA) on their surfaces. The thickness of an HCA surface layer increased with decreased oxygen partial pressure. The cross-sectional micrographs were nearly similar to the 45S5 Bioglass®.