Biodegradation of sol-gel-derived 52S4 bioactive glass/polycaprolactone/sodium alginate bone paste composite

The aim of this study was to prepare and investigate biodegradability of an injectable paste composed of sol-gel-derived 52S4 bioactive glass (BG), polycaprolactone microspheres (PCL) and sodium alginate. The composite paste was obtained by mixing a powder phase comprising 60 %wt BG and 40 %wt PCL with 4% w/v solution of sodium alginate. Physical form and surface morphology of the paste was evaluated by photography and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) after 21 days soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF), respectively. The concentration of released calcium and silicon ions in the SBF were measured through inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). Sodium alginate release of the sample was also detected by UV-visible spectroscopy. The immersed paste exhibited good wash out resistance but signs of degradation of BG and PCL surface were observed in the SEM images. A continues release of calcium and silicon ions in the SBF solution was observed during 21 days. Peak of carbonyl group in sodium alginate structure was detected in UV-visible patterns. It confirms degradation of sodium alginate component as well. Overall, the produced composite can be successfully used as a biodegradable biomaterial for non-invasive surgeries though more biological evaluations are required.

Keywords:

Biodegradable , Bioactive glass , Polycaprolactone , Paste