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

This study aims the applicability and efficacy of a new DC water plasma method at low temperature, for the sterilization of titanium contaminated samples and its effects on the surface oxide layer and morphological structure. The plasma treatment was carried out at a temperature of 60°C, for a predefined time of 10 minutes. Water vapor was generated from distilled water and polarized at -700 V during plasma-on period. Elemental analysis revealed that Ti surfaces showed a complete absence of organic and inorganic molecules (0% at detected /1% sensitivity) and complete bacteria elimination. Additionally, the oxygen content remained around 8% indicating a positive outcome for bioactivity titanium surface due to oxide presence. Initial results support that the water plasma system enables effective elimination of surface microorganisms while enhancing the natural oxide layer make up of titanium using a low temperature and water-based sterilization system that can be envisioned for clinical use.