In vitro bioactivity assessment and mechanical properties of novel calcium titanate/borosilicate glass composites

Bioactive calcium titanate/borosilicate glass composites were developed. Powder mixtures of borosilicate glass and 10, 20 or 30 wt% of potassium polytitanate particles were uniaxially pressed and sintered at 850 °C for 1 h. After heat treatment the reaction between potassium polytitanate and borosilicate glass produced composites consisting of calcium titanate particles embedded in a B-rich amorphous phase. For the in vitro bioactivity assessment sintered samples were immersed in a simulated body fluid (SBF) for 21 days under physiological conditions of pH and temperature. The compressive strength of the composites was also evaluated. A homogeneous and thick apatite layer was formed on all the materials tested. Furthermore, an appropriate compressive strength was observed (68–85 MPa). These results indicate that these composites are potential materials for bone tissue replacement and regeneration.