Improved Corrosion Behavior and Biocompatibility of Porous Titanium Samples Coated with Bioactive Chitosan-Based...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Surface Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Porous titanium implants address stress shielding but suffer from reduced mechanical and corrosion resistance.
• Surface treatments are necessary to enhance the performance of porous titanium implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate chitosan, chitosan/AgNPs, and chitosan/HA coatings on porous titanium implants.
• To assess the impact of these coatings on corrosion resistance and cellular behavior.
• To identify optimal coating and substrate combinations for bone tissue regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Porous titanium samples fabricated using a space-holder technique.
• Single-step, cost-effective electrodeposition of Chitosan, Chitosan/AgNPs, and Chitosan/HA coatings.
• Analysis of coating topography, homogeneity, and chemical composition.
• Electrochemical studies to evaluate corrosion resistance.
• Assessment of cell adhesion and proliferation.

Main Results:

• Porous titanium exhibited high current densities and unstable oxide films, necessitating surface treatments.
• Chitosan coatings significantly improved corrosion resistance.
• Chitosan/AgNPs and Chitosan/HA coatings demonstrated the highest protection efficiency, particularly on highly porous samples.
• Coatings enhanced adherence and surface roughness, promoting cell adhesion and proliferation.

Conclusions:

• Chitosan-based coatings, especially with AgNPs or HA, effectively enhance the corrosion resistance and bioactivity of porous titanium implants.
• These enhanced implants show promise for replacing small, damaged bone tissues due to improved biomechanical and biofunctional properties.