Characterization and potential applications of new boron-phosphate glass in the CaO-P₂O₅-K₂O-B₂O₃ system

Boron phosphate glasses are known for their unique properties and have been investigated as biodegradable materials for biomedical applications. In this context, the present research studied the characterization of physical, mechanical, and bioactive properties of new boron-phosphate glass in the CaO-P₂O₅ -K₂ O-B₂O₃ system produced by the melt-quenching method. The structure and morphology of the material were investigated by FTIR, XRD, DSC, SEM-EDS, laser diffraction, and BET-BJH methods. Additionally, density and Vickers hardness were determined, and its bioactive potential was evaluated by immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF). The results demonstrated higher values of Vickers hardness (7.45 GPa) for the new glass when compared to other glasses. Furthermore, the material exhibited apatite-forming ability after immersion in SBF, which was confirmed by the information obtained through surface analysis. The newly created glass presented a promising potential for applications in tissue engineering. (author)