Synthesis of a Calcium Silicate Cement Containing a Calcinated Strontium Silicate Phase

Abstract

Objectives. The positive effects of strontium on dental and skeletal remineralization have been confirmed in the literature. This study aimed to assess the properties of a calcium silicate cement (CSC) containing a sintered strontium silicate phase. Materials and Methods. The calcium silicate and strontium silicate phases were synthesized by the sol–gel technique. Strontium silicate powder in 0 (CSC), 10 (CSC/10Sr), 20 (CSC/20Sr), and 30 (CSC/30Sr) weight percentages was mixed with calcium silicate powder. Calcium chloride was used in the liquid phase. X-ray diffraction (XRD) of specimens was conducted before and after hydration. The setting time and compressive strength were assessed at 1 and 7 days after setting. The set discs of the aforementioned groups were immersed in the simulated body fluid (SBF) for 1 and 7 days. The ion release profile was evaluated by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Biomineralization on the specimen surface was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). Data were analyzed by the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, one-way and mixed ANOVA, Levene’s test, and LSD post hoc test (P 0.05). The setting time significantly decreased by an increase in percentage of strontium (P <0.05). Release of Ca and Si ions significantly decreased by an increase in percentage of strontium (P <0.05). SEM/EDS showed the formation of calcium phosphate deposits at 1 and 7 days. Conclusion. Incorporation of 10−30 wt% sintered strontium silicate phase as premixed in CSC can significantly decrease the setting time without compromising the compressive strength or biomineralization process of the cement.