WATER PLASMA TREATMENT METHOD: SIMULTANEOUS STERILIZATION AND SURFACE MODIFICATION OF TITANIUM-BASED IMPLANTS

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Sterilization Technologies

Background:

• Sterilization of medical implants is crucial for preventing infections.
• Conventional sterilization methods may affect material properties or require high temperatures.
• Developing effective, low-temperature sterilization techniques for titanium is essential for biomedical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the applicability and efficacy of a new DC water plasma method for sterilizing titanium.
• To assess the impact of water plasma treatment on the surface oxide layer and morphology of titanium.
• To determine the potential of this method for clinical use.

Main Methods:

• Titanium samples were treated using a DC water plasma system at 60°C for 10 minutes.
• Water vapor was generated from distilled water and polarized at -700 V.
• Elemental analysis was performed to assess surface composition and contamination levels.

Main Results:

• Complete elimination of organic and inorganic contaminants (0% detected) and bacteria was achieved.
• The oxygen content on the titanium surface remained stable at approximately 8%.
• The water plasma treatment did not negatively impact the titanium surface oxide layer or morphology.

Conclusions:

• The DC water plasma method is effective for low-temperature sterilization of titanium.
• The process enhances the natural oxide layer, potentially improving titanium bioactivity.
• This water-based sterilization system shows promise for future clinical applications.