Functional Hybrid Chitosan Coatings With Cu Nanoparticles on the Shape Memory NiTi Enabling Bactericidal Activity
Piotr Jabłoński1,2, Agnieszka Kyzioł3, Halina Krawiec4
1Faculty of Materials Science and Ceramics, AGH University of Krakow, Kraków, Poland.
Summary
This study developed a novel chitosan and copper nanoparticle coating for biomedical implants. The multifunctional coating enhances corrosion resistance, promotes cell growth, and exhibits strong antibacterial properties against common pathogens.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Biomedical implants require advanced coatings to improve biocompatibility and prevent infections.
- Chitosan offers a biocompatible matrix, while copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) possess antimicrobial properties.
- Developing multifunctional coatings with controlled nanoparticle integration remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To fabricate and characterize a hybrid chitosan/copper nanoparticle coating on NiTi substrates.
- To evaluate the coating's physical, chemical, electrochemical, and biological properties for biomedical applications.
- To demonstrate the potential of this tunable coating for tissue engineering and infection prevention.
Main Methods:
- A hybrid fabrication approach combining chitosan immersion deposition and magnetron sputtering-based inert gas condensation (IGC) for CuNP generation.
- Surface characterization using techniques to assess roughness, hydrophilicity, stability, and durability.
- Electrochemical testing for corrosion resistance evaluation.
- In vitro cytotoxicity assays with MG-63 osteoblast-like cells and antibacterial assays against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
- In vitro copper ion release studies in Ringer's solution.
Main Results:
- The CS/CuNPs/CS coatings exhibited excellent surface coverage, nanoscale roughness (30-65 nm), and moderate hydrophilicity (30°-35° contact angle), supporting cell adhesion.
- Enhanced corrosion resistance was observed, with reduced current density (4.10 × 10⁻⁴ mA/cm²).
- The coatings demonstrated non-cytotoxicity, significant inhibition of S. aureus, and complete elimination of E. coli.
- Controlled, predominantly linear release of copper ions over 7 days was confirmed, indicating sustained antimicrobial activity.
Conclusions:
- The developed hybrid chitosan/CuNP coating offers a promising, tunable platform for biomedical implants.
- The coating enhances implant biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and provides potent antibacterial efficacy.
- This approach allows for customization of coating properties and controlled nanoparticle usage for specific therapeutic needs.
