Bioactive Coatings on Ti-Zr-Nb Alloy: Synthesis, Characterization and Implantology Potential

This research reports on the properties of oxide-ceramic coatings produced by plasma electrolytic oxidation in novel electrolyte solutions for implantology applications. A series of bioactive calcium-phosphate coatings was synthesized on medical-grade Ti-13Zr-13Nb alloy using the plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) method. Novel electrolytes enriched with calcium and phosphorus were developed, enabling the formation of coatings with tailored physicochemical and structural characteristics. A correlation was established between the electrolyte composition and the phase composition, thickness, morphology, porosity, and microhardness of the resulting coatings. The optimum coatings exhibited a Ca/P ratio close to that of natural human bone tissue, homogeneity, a well-developed porous surface topography, and controlled resorption behavior. For the first time, a mechanism of calcium-phosphate coating resorption in a biologically active environment has been proposed. It involves partial dissolution, the formation of apatite-like surface structures, and the subsequent controlled release of Ca and P ions. In vitro testing in simulated body fluid indicated the potential bioactivity of the synthesized coatings. The proposed calcium-phosphate coatings may be considered promising candidates for future implant surface modification. The results obtained are significant for the development of advanced orthopedic and dental implants, including those fabricated using additive manufacturing technologies.