Abstract: A series of phosphate glasses containing antibacterial components were prepared by the melt-quenching method, and the effects of CaO content and temperature on the dissolution rate, structural characteristics, and antibacterial performance of the glasses were systematically investigated. The results showed that CaO content had a significant influence on the dissolution behavior: Ca²⁺, acting as a network modifier, enhanced the three-dimensional cross-linking degree of the glass, thereby reducing weight loss and extending service life; glasses with higher CaO content exhibited better stability against temperature variations. Antibacterial tests revealed that sample G-6 achieved the optimal balance between sustained ion release and antibacterial efficacy, with an inhibition rate of 99.9% against E. coli after 1 h of exposure, and a theoretical service life of approximately 2.5 years. Further studies indicated that an appropriate increase in ZnO whisker content allowed the maintenance of excellent antibacterial performance at a lower Ag₂O dosage, thereby improving material safety. XRD and EDS analyses confirmed that the glasses were amorphous, with Ag, Zn, and Cu antibacterial ions uniformly distributed within the glass matrix, enabling sustained release. The prepared phosphate antibacterial glasses demonstrate long-term controlled-release and efficient antibacterial properties, making them suitable for use in non-potable water systems such as washing machines, rotary floor scrubber, and humidifiers.

Key words: Phosphate glass, Antibacterial materials, Ion release, Non-potable water systems