Scientists 3D print bio-glass with skeletal strength

3D-printable bio-active glass seen in pink. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Researchers in China have developed a 3D printable bio-active glass that edges closer to bone resilience. In animal tests, it supported bone cell growth longer than plain glass and nearly matched a leading dental implant material.

Both glass and bone share a key trait thanks to their molecular structures. They resist compression better than stretching. But while glass has potential, perfecting the printing process has been a hurdle. Conventional glass 3D printing requires toxic plasticisers and extreme heat above 1093°C, limiting its use in medicine.

Researchers led by Jianru Xiao, Tao Chen, and Huanan Wang combined oppositely charged silica particles with calcium and phosphate ions, both known to trigger cell formation. This mixture formed a printable gel that could be hardened at 704 degrees Celsius.

Testing the new bio-glass, the team compared their new bio-glass, plain silica glass, and a commercial dental bone substitute in the rabbit skull repair. While the commercial product spurred faster early growth, the bio-glass proved more durable. After eight weeks, most bone cells had attached to the bio-glass scaffold, and the plain glass showed little to no growth. Researchers reported that their material sustained bone growth longer than existing options.

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