Tuning Titanium Surface Properties via μPPEO for Improved Osseointegration and Cell Adhesion.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Surface Science
• Materials Chemistry

Background:

• Titanium surfaces are critical for dental implant bioactivity.
• Controlling surface properties like Ca/P ratio, phase formation, and porosity is essential for osseointegration.
• Existing methods may lack precise control over these parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate micro-pulse plasma electrolytic oxidation (μPPEO) for enhanced control over titanium surface properties.
• To optimize Ca/P ratio, anatase/rutile phase formation, and porosity for improved bioactivity.
• To evaluate the effect of μPPEO on surface hydrophilicity and osteoblast cell response.

Main Methods:

• Application of electrical micro-pulses (50 μs or 100 μs) during plasma electrolytic oxidation.
• Characterization of surface morphology, Ca/P ratio, and crystalline phases (anatase, rutile).
• Assessment of surface hydrophilicity and surface energy components.
• In vitro evaluation of osteoblast (OFCOL) cell viability and morphology.

Main Results:

• μPPEO treatment resulted in uniform pore diameters and a Ca/P ratio near 1.67.
• Controlled formation of anatase and rutile phases was achieved.
• Treated surfaces became hydrophilic, with the 6Ti50 sample showing the highest polar surface energy.
• The 6Ti50 sample supported osteoblast viability comparable to polystyrene controls.
• Osteoblasts exhibited favorable spindle-like morphology with elongated filopodia on treated surfaces.

Conclusions:

• μPPEO offers precise control over titanium surface characteristics critical for bioactivity.
• The technique successfully enhances surface hydrophilicity and promotes osteoblast interaction.
• μPPEO is a promising method for optimizing dental implant surfaces for clinical applications.