Direct Laser Interference Patterning (DLIP) on PEEK Coating for Biomedical and Dental Applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Surface Engineering
• Dental Implantology

Background:

• Polyether ether ketone (PEEK) is a biocompatible material for dental implants.
• Unmodified PEEK surfaces may not provide optimal osseointegration or antibacterial resistance.
• Direct laser interference patterning (DLIP) can create micro/nanoscale features to enhance implant performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate surface characteristics, antibacterial effects, and biocompatibility of DLIP-functionalized PEEK coatings on 316L stainless steel (SS).
• To evaluate the impact of different spatial periods (1, 1.5, and 2 µm) created by DLIP on PEEK surfaces.
• To determine the optimal DLIP configuration for improved dental implant performance.

Main Methods:

• PEEK coatings were applied to 316L SS via electrophoretic deposition.
• DLIP was used to create periodic surface patterns with spatial periods of 1, 1.5, and 2 µm.
• Surface characterization included SEM, contact angle, and roughness measurements. Antibacterial activity against *Escherichia coli* and MG-63 osteoblast-like cell viability were assessed.

Main Results:

• The DLIP-functionalized PEEK surface with a 1.5-µm spatial period showed optimal surface features (contact angle: 92±1°, roughness: 2.04±0.03 µm).
• This 1.5-µm patterned surface significantly inhibited *E. coli* growth.
• The 1.5-µm configuration achieved 80% cell viability, indicating enhanced antibacterial properties and biocompatibility.

Conclusions:

• DLIP is an effective technique for functionalizing PEEK coatings, enhancing surface characteristics crucial for antibacterial activity and osteoblast compatibility.
• A 1.5-µm spatial period via DLIP yielded the most promising results for PEEK-coated dental implants.
• DLIP-functionalized PEEK coatings offer a novel and translatable surface modification for improved dental implant applications.