Bone-like apatite coating on functionalized poly(etheretherketone) surface via tailored silanization layers technique

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Poly(etheretherketone) (PEEK) is a promising biomaterial for orthopedic and dental implants due to its mechanical properties and biocompatibility.
• The bio-inert surface of PEEK hinders direct osteointegration with host tissues.
• Enhancing PEEK's bioactivity is crucial for improved implant performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To functionalize the PEEK surface with specific chemical groups (-PO4H2, -COOH, -OH).
• To investigate the formation of bone-like apatite coatings on functionalized PEEK.
• To evaluate the impact of apatite coating on the in vitro biocompatibility of PEEK.

Main Methods:

• Surface hydroxylation and vinyl-terminated silanization of PEEK.
• Chemical treatment to introduce phosphate, carboxyl, and hydroxyl groups.
• Characterization using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and ATR-FTIR.
• Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) immersion test to assess apatite formation.
• In vitro cell culture studies with MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblast cells.

Main Results:

• Uniform and firm apatite coating formed on the functionalized PEEK surface in SBF.
• The coating consisted of poorly crystallized, bone-like apatite.
• Surface functional groups significantly influenced apatite coating formation.
• In vitro biocompatibility, including cell attachment, spreading, and proliferation, was markedly enhanced by the apatite coating.

Conclusions:

• The surface functionalization strategy effectively enhances PEEK bioactivity.
• Bone-like apatite coating promotes osteointegration and improves PEEK's suitability for implants.
• This method offers a pathway to expand the application of PEEK in orthopedic and dental fields.