Production and characterization of Zn- and Cu-doped Y2O3–Al2O3–SiO2 (YAS) glass microspheres

Abstract

Background/aim: YAS glass microspheres are currently used in radioembolization treatment. However, abscess formation can occur following this treatment. The aim of this study is to endow YAS glass microspheres with antibacterial properties to address the abscesses that form in patients after radioembolization treatment.Materials and methods: In this study, undoped Y2O3–Al2O3–SiO2 (YAS) glass microspheres, as well as those doped with antibacterial agents zinc (Zn) and/or copper (Cu), were successfully fabricated using a sol-gel derived method.Results: After heat treatment, the microspheres exhibited an amorphous structure. Additionally, the incorporation of Zn and/or Cu dopants did not alter the patterns observed in the X-ray diffraction analysis. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis detected Si–O–Si, Al–O–Al, and Y–O band vibrations within the structure. The presence of Zn and Cu dopants was confirmed through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that all samples possessed a regular microsphere morphology, with average particle sizes ranging from 6 to 50 µm. These average particle sizes were further confirmed using a mastersizer.Conclusion:The antibacterial agent doped YAS glass microspheres show promise in combating infections that occur following radioembolization treatment.