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Fe and C additions decrease the dissolution rate of silicon nitride coatings and are compatible with microglial
Estefanía Echeverri1, Charlotte Skjöldebrand1, Paul O'Callaghan2
1Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Uppsala University, Sweden. cecilia.persson@angstrom.uu.se.
Biomaterials Science
|March 15, 2023
Summary
Adding iron and carbon to silicon nitride coatings for metallic implants reduces ion release and maintains cell viability. This suggests potential for enhanced implant longevity and function.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Materials Engineering
- Orthopedic Implants
Background:
- Silicon nitride (SiN) coatings on metallic implants aim to minimize metal ion release.
- SiN coatings dissolve over time, potentially limiting implant lifespan.
- Iron (Fe) and carbon (C) additives can modify SiN mechanical properties, but their effect on dissolution and ion release is unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of Fe and C on SiN coating dissolution rates.
- To assess the ability of Fe- and C-containing SiN coatings to reduce metal ion release from CoCrMo substrates.
- To evaluate the biocompatibility of these modified SiN coatings with central nervous system (CNS) microglia.
Main Methods:
- Compositional gradients of Si, Fe, and C were deposited onto CoCrMo discs using physical vapor deposition.
- Surface roughness, ion release (Si, Fe, Co), and microglial viability were assessed.
- Extracts from coatings were tested on 2D and 3D microglial cultures.
Main Results:
- Fe and C addition did not alter surface roughness or Si/Fe/Co ion release from the substrate.
- Fe- and C-containing SiN coatings exhibited reduced ion release compared to pure SiN.
- Coating extracts were compatible with microglial viability in both 2D and 3D models.
Conclusions:
- Fe and C additives decrease SiN dissolution rates, potentially by forming stabilizing Si-C or Fe-C bonds.
- These modified SiN coatings do not compromise microglial viability.
- Further research is warranted to explore the use of Fe- and C-modified SiN coatings for improved metallic implant performance and longevity.
