Studies on synthesis of calcium ferrite-based bio glass ceramics

The possibility of synthesizing a Ca-ferrite based biocompatible glass ceramic has been explored in the following two glass compositions: (i) 28Na(2)O-8CaO-3P(2)O(5)-11Fe(2)O(3)-50SiO(2), and (ii) 25N(2)O-8CaO-3P(2)O(5)-20Fe(2)O(3)-41SiO(2)-3B(2)O(3) (in weight ratio). The effect of simulated body fluid on the different glasses and glass ceramics was also investigated. While there is no direct evidence for apatite formation, the weight losses recorded and formation of a Si-rich layer at the surface appears to be an indication of onset of apatite formation. The rate of apatite formation is presumably retarded due to the presence of Al3+ (picked up from Al2O3 crucible). Ferromagnetic resonance experiments at 9.03 GHz demonstrate that these glass ceramics can possibly be used for microwave hyperthermia.