Evaluation of physical–chemical properties and biocompatibility of a microrough and smooth bioactive glass particles

The purpose of this study was to evaluate physical–chemical and biocompatibility characteristics of a simple synthesis and low cost experimental bioactive glass. Physical and chemical properties were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray energy dispersive (EDX), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The biomaterials were subcutaneously implanted into rats, according to the following groups: G1, PerioGlas™; G2, Biogran™, G3, Experimental Bioactive Glass U (BGU) and G4, Control (Sham). After 7, 15, 21, 45, and 60 days, 5 animals/group/period were sacrificed and the subcutaneous tissue was dissected for histological and histometric analysis, considering inflammatory reaction and granulation area, presence of polymorphonuclear (PMN), monuclear (MN) and fibroblast (F) cells. SEM analysis of biomaterials showed irregular particles with different surface characteristics. EDX showed calcium, oxygen, sodium, phosphorus and silicon; XRF revealed silica oxide (SiO 2 ), sodium oxide (Na 2 O), calcium oxide (CaO) and phosphorus oxide (P 2 O 5 ). XRD indicated non crystalline phase. Measurement of tissue reaction showed similar results among the experimental groups at 45 and 60 days. No difference was found for PMN, MN and F cell counts. All biomaterials exhibited partial resorption. In conclusion, the experimental bioactive glass analyzed showed physical and chemical characteristics similar to the commercially available biomaterials, and was considered biocompatible, being partially reabsorbed in the subcutaneous tissue.