In a significant stride towards enhancing the longevity and safety of biomedical implants, researchers have developed a novel coating technique that could revolutionize the way we approach implant-associated infections. The study, led by Łukasz Pawłowski from the Department of Biomaterials Technology at Gdańsk University of Technology, focuses on the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) of composite coatings on titanium implants. This method combines chitosan, nanohydroxyapatite, and silver nanoparticles to create a bioactive, corrosion-resistant surface.
The research, published in the journal ‘Scientific Reports’ (which translates to ‘Nature Research Reports’), explores the impact of various deposition parameters on the coating’s microstructure, adhesion, corrosion resistance, wettability, bioactivity, and silver release. Pawłowski and his team found that the coatings reached a maximum thickness of approximately 7 micrometers at 30 volts over 5 minutes. However, the most uniform and adherent coating was achieved at 10 volts over 3 minutes.
The study revealed that increasing voltage and time produced rougher and more porous surfaces, but decreased adhesion. Corrosion resistance improved with coating thickness, with open circuit potentials shifting positively up to 0.15 volts versus the reference electrode. Wettability tests showed hydrophilic behavior with contact angles of around 80 degrees. Bioactivity in simulated body fluid was confirmed by calcium phosphate precipitation on all coated samples, particularly the thicker ones.
One of the key findings was the controlled release of silver ions, which is crucial for antibacterial functionality. Pawłowski noted, “Silver ion release was controlled by deposition parameters, ranging from 0.9 milligrams per liter (10 V/3 min) to 1.8 milligrams per liter (30 V/5 min) after 7 days, indicating a balance between antibacterial functionality and coating integrity.”
The implications of this research extend beyond the medical field, particularly for the maritime industry. The development of corrosion-resistant and bioactive coatings can significantly enhance the durability and safety of marine structures, such as offshore platforms and ship hulls. These coatings can prevent biofouling, which is the accumulation of microorganisms, plants, algae, or small animals on wetted surfaces, leading to increased drag and maintenance costs.
Moreover, the controlled release of silver ions can provide antimicrobial protection, reducing the risk of infections in marine environments. This is particularly important for aquaculture facilities, where the prevention of bacterial growth is crucial for the health of marine life.
Pawłowski’s research highlights the potential of ethanol-based EPD in fabricating bioactive, corrosion-resistant coatings with tunable properties. The study underscores the importance of optimizing deposition parameters to achieve the desired balance between antibacterial functionality and coating integrity. As the maritime industry continues to seek innovative solutions to enhance the longevity and safety of its structures, this research offers a promising avenue for exploration.
In the words of Pawłowski, “These results demonstrate that ethanol-based EPD can fabricate bioactive, corrosion-resistant CS/nanoHAp/AgNPs coatings with tunable properties. Optimized coatings show potential for biomedical applications, particularly in reducing implant-associated infections while supporting bone integration.” This sentiment resonates with the maritime sector’s quest for advanced coatings that can withstand harsh environments while providing long-term protection.