Wetting of bioactive glass surfaces by poly(α-hydroxyacid) melts: Interaction between Bioglass® and biodegradable polymers

Abstract

The interfacial characteristics between bioactive glass (45S5 Bioglass®) surfaces and poly(α-hydroxyacid) melts have been assessed by direct wetting measurements. In particular, the wettability of Bioglass® powder by poly(D,L-lactide) (PDLLA) and poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) was assessed by imbibition measurements. Additionally, the equilibrium contact angles of PDLLA and PLGA melts on a sintered Bioglass® surface were measured. The surface energy of the bioactive glass and the polymers was determined from contact angles measured using various test liquids on PDLLA, PLGA and Bioglass® solid substrates. There are sufficient adhesive interactions between the polymers and Bioglass®. A simple heat treatment of the bioactive glass in an inert gas atmosphere leads to an improved wetting behaviour, indicating increased adhesive interactions. Scanning electron micrographs of the polymer + Bioglass® composites formed by polymer penetration into the powder bed show the formation of a 'good quality' interface.