Development of new titanium oxide films biofunctionalized with structural and chemical gradient on the Ti-40Nb alloy for osseointegrable implants

Abstract

Infection and tribocorrosion degradation are among the main complications by prosthesis-associated factors, leading to the failure of orthopedic implants. In order to solve this issue, the implant material can be functionalized by micro-arc oxidation (MAO), an effective technique to produce porous coatings incorporated with bioactive elements. According to recent works, improved tribological performance can be achieved by forming anatase and rutile phases in the crystalline structure, or also adding ceramic particles into the MAO films. From the biological point of view, although those oxide films have demonstrated good antibacterial properties with the addition of Zn, their effect is limited over long periods. On the other hand, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are known for providing a long-lasting antimicrobial activity without negatively affect host cells. In this regard, using different characterization techniques, this proposal aims to analyze the tribocorrosion behavior of MAO composite films produced on titanium alloy, in order to better understand their degradation mechanism. Additionally, to acquire a first insight on immobilization of AMPs onto those surfaces. (AU)