Analysis of bioactive fluoride-containing calcium aluminosilicate glasses

Different decomposition methods in aqueous solutions were evaluated on their accuracy and reproducibility for the quantitative determination of the constituents of bioactive fluoride-containing glasses used in dental glass ionomer cements. The concentrations of metals can be determined rapidly and accurately by atomic absorption spectrophotometry after degrading the sample in hydrochloric or hydrofluoric acid. The latter degradation method is also suited for the determination of Si. F can be determined with an ion-selective electrode after degrading the samples in 0.5 M HCl. Higher HCl concentrations enhance the risk of HF release. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.