Study of Niobium-Based Coatings and Silver Incorporation for Biomedical Applications

Surface engineering has established itself as a fundamental strategy for enhancing the performance of materials in critical environments, particularly in the biomedical sector, where resistance to corrosion, wear, and microbial contamination is essential. In this context, the aim of this work was to develop and characterize niobium-based coatings incorporating silver, targeting applications in the biomedical field. NbN and Nb₂O₅ coatings were obtained by magnetron sputtering and subsequently modified through ion plating with silver ions. The results showed that the films exhibit promising physicochemical and biological properties. The coatings demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, corrosion and wear resistance, and bactericidal activity, being effective in preventing biofilm formation without presenting cytotoxicity. The research confirms the effectiveness of surface engineering as a sustainable and efficient approach to mitigating corrosion, wear, and microbial contamination in critical environments. Future studies may focus on long-term evaluations and industrial-scale feasibility.