Effect of ZrO2 additions on the crystallization, mechanical and biological properties of MgO–CaO–SiO2–P2O5–CaF2 bioactive glass-ceramics.

Highlights: [•] The crystallization and mechanical properties are greatly influenced by additives. [•] t-ZrO2 significantly improves the mechanical properties of glass-ceramics. [•] Nanometer apatite is formed on glass-ceramic surface in simulated body fluid. [•] The in vitro cytotoxicity test shows the glass-ceramic has no toxicity to cell. [•] The sedimentation mechanism and growth process of apatite on surface are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]