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Plasma Polishing as a New Polishing Option to Reduce the Surface Roughness of Porous Titanium Alloy for 3D Printing
Published on: April 28, 2023
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Modern methods of surface modification for new-generation titanium alloys
Julia Lisoń-Kubica1, Anna Taratuta1, Karolina Goldsztajn1
1Silesian University of Technology, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomaterials and Medical Devices Engineering, Zabrze, Poland.
Acta of Bioengineering and Biomechanics
|June 21, 2023
Summary
New titanium (Ti) alloys with improved biocompatibility are crucial for aging populations. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) enhances Ti13Nb13Zr alloy coatings, reducing complications and improving patient outcomes in orthopedic implants.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Materials Engineering
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Increasing demand for long-term orthopedic implants due to an aging population.
- Limitations of current titanium (Ti) alloys (e.g., Ti6Al4V, Ti6Al7Nb) necessitate advanced biomaterials.
- Development of new-generation Ti alloys incorporating elements like vanadium (V), niobium (Nb), zirconium (Zr), iron, and tantalum for enhanced biocompatibility and mechanical properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the atomic layer deposition (ALD) method for novel titanium alloys.
- To evaluate the physicochemical properties of Ti13Nb13Zr alloy for skeletal applications.
- To assess the impact of tin oxide (SnO2) coatings applied via ALD and physical vapor deposition (PVD) on alloy performance.
Main Methods:
- Utilized atomic layer deposition (ALD) and physical vapor deposition (PVD) for thin film coatings.
- Investigated the effect of varying temperature and cycle numbers on surface properties.
- Evaluated physicochemical properties including surface area and contact angle (hydrophilicity).
Main Results:
- ALD and PVD coatings modified the surface area of Ti13Nb13Zr alloy samples.
- All coated specimens exhibited improved hydrophilic properties compared to the uncoated alloy.
- Coating decreased the risk of postoperative mineralization complications, enhancing clinical outcomes.
Conclusions:
- ALD and PVD are effective methods for modifying titanium alloy surfaces for biomedical applications.
- Ti13Nb13Zr alloy coatings demonstrate improved biocompatibility and reduced complication rates.
- These advancements contribute to more effective biomaterials, improved patient well-being, and better clinical results in orthopedic surgery.

