Properties of biodegradable polymer coatings with hydroxyapatite on a titanium alloy substrate

Purpose: Titanium alloys are among the most widely used materials in medicine, especially in orthopedics. However, their use requires the application of an appropriate surface modification method to improve their properties. Such methods include anodic oxidation and the application of polymer coatings, which limit the release of alloying element ions. In addition, biodegradable polymer coatings can serve as a carrier for drugs and other substances. The paper presents the results of research on the physical properties of biodegradable polymer coatings containing nanoparticle hydroxyapatite on a titanium alloy substrate. Methods: A PLGA coating was used in the tests. The coatings on the substrate of the anodized Ti6Al7Nb alloy were applied by ultrasonic spray coating. The tests were carried out for coatings with various hydroxyapatite content (5, 10, 15, 20%) and thickness resulting from the number of layers applied (5, 10, 15 layers). The scope of the research included microscopic observations using scanning electron microscopy, topography tests with optical profilometry, structural studies using X-ray diffraction, as well as wettability and adhesion tests. Results: The results shows that with the use of ultrasonic spray coating system is possible to obtain the continuous coatings containing hydroxyapaptite. Conclusions: The properties of the coating can be controlled by changing the percentage of hydroxyapatite and the number of layers of which the coating is composed.