Nuclear characterization and investigation of radioactive bioglass seed surfaces for brachytherapy via scanning electron microscopy

This paper aims to analyze images created through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the surfaces of radioactive bioglass seeds for brachytherapy implants. The SEM surface images were taken of bioglass seeds made of [Si:Ca:Ho] with Zr and Ba contrast agents and of seeds made of [Si:Ca:Sm] with Ba contrast agent. The following groups were considered: bioglass seeds after synthesis, seeds after irradiation and surface-induced fractures. The SEM image pre-processing required an appropriate mounting support following metallization with gold to fix the bioglass seeds made of inorganic elements. The microscope images were analyzed and showed surface changes among the seed groups. Nuclear characterization of the radioactive bioglass seeds by gamma spectrometry provided the gamma signatures of Sm-153 and Ho-166 followed by the contrast agents. The particle ranges on ceramic; water and tissue were also analyzed using gamma and beta particle evaluations. The results complement the study of the characterization and biodegradability of radioactive bioglass seeds for brachytherapy implants.