The Use of Si(C,N) Layers as Barrier Coatings in Dentistry

The corrosion phenomenon can cause negative allergic and cytotoxic reactions in the human body, inflammation, and, in the future, the development of cancer. Their sources may be corrosion products, metal ions released during the corrosion process, and galvanic currents that penetrate the surrounding tissues. In order to avoid the negative effects of using metal alloys, their surface can be modified by applying coatings. The aim of this study is to determine and compare the amount of ion release from Si(C,N) coatings with varying carbon and nitrogen contents, as well as from the uncoated substrate alloy (Group A) in various aqueous environments. Si(C,N) coatings were applied to the surface of the prosthetic alloy. Si(C,N) coatings with different carbon and nitrogen contents were deposited using the reactive magnetron sputtering (RMS) method. The research included determining the amount of ions released into the environment: distilled water, 0.9% NaCl and artificial saliva. Assessments were made at 10, 30 and 90 days. All tested Si(C,N) coatings significantly limit the amount of metal ions in the surrounding medium. Due to the lack of statistically significant differences in the number of ions released by individual coatings, when selecting them, other properties related to the operating conditions of the elements should also be taken into account.