X-RAY Diffraction Analysis of Indigenously Developed Bioceramic Pulp Capping Agent Ceremagnum Plus with Conventional One: An Invitro Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to compare the crystallographic properties of a novel bioceramic material, Ceremagnum Plus, with MTA-Angelus, using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis to evaluate their phase composition, crystallinity, and amorphous content.
Methods: Ceremagnum Plus was synthesized using KH₂PO₄ and MgO in a 1:1 molar ratio, sintered at 900°C, and combined with CaSiO₃, cerium oxide (CeO₂), zirconium oxide (ZrO₂), and NaF. MTA-Angelus was used as the control. The materials were prepared, incubated at 37°C with 100% humidity for three days, and then analyzed using XRD. The diffraction patterns were matched with the International Centre for Diffraction Data (ICDD) database for phase identification.
Results: MTA-Angelus exhibited 72.4% crystallinity, with distinct peaks at 2θ ≈ 29.0°, 34.4°, and 39.4°, corresponding to calcium silicate phases (C₃S, C₂S) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), with bismuth oxide (Bi₂O₃) acting as a radiopacifier. In contrast, Ceremagnum Plus showed 25.5% crystallinity and 74.5% amorphous content, with dominant peaks at 2θ ≈ 42.45°, suggesting a composition of phosphate-based glass-ceramics, calcium silicate, and magnesium phosphate phases. The presence of cerium oxide (CeO₂) at 62.26° and zirconium oxide (ZrO₂) at 28.55° was also confirmed.
Conclusion: MTA-Angelus demonstrated a more ordered crystalline structure, contributing to its stability and long-term bioactivity, whereas Ceremagnum Plus, with its higher amorphous content, may exhibit faster setting, enhanced bioactivity, and improved handling properties. These findings suggest that Ceremagnum Plus could be a promising alternative to MTA-Angelus, with potential clinical advantages that warrant further investigation through mechanical and biological studies.