Abstract
Zn is an excellent choice for temporary orthopaedic implants since its degradation rate is better than Mg- or Fe-based biodegradable metals and closely matches the healing pace of fractured bones. The current work focuses on modifying the Zn-1Mg surface to slow its corrosion, synchronising it even more closely with patients' recovery phases while enhancing its surface bioactivity for seamless osteointegration. An oxide coating with porous morphology was initially created on Zn-1Mg through plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO). Subsequently, the PEO-coating pores were sealed with a polymer matrix of polycaprolactone (PCL) to improve corrosion resistance. Finally, PEO-pores were filled with hydroxyapatite (HA) incorporated PCL to enhance corrosion resistance further and impart bioactivity. Raman and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the phases in the coatings are mainly ZnO, HA, and polymer PCL. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images revealed the porous nature of the PEO coatings, and the PEO coatings with polymer top coats showcased the sealing of the PEO pores. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) spectra confirmed the species from HA and PCL on the surface of PEO-coated Zn-1Mg. The coatings PEO and PEO with polymer top coating transformed the hydrophobic Zn-1Mg surface into a hydrophilic one, optimising surface roughness for cell adhesion and nutrient absorption. The ceramic oxide layer introduced by the PEO-coating significantly enhanced corrosion resistance, a benefit further amplified by post-processing with the PCL-based matrix. The inclusion of HA into PCL transformed the coated sample into a highly bioactive surface. Consequently, the HA-incorporated PCL top-coated PEO sample displayed superior cell attachment and viability. These findings indicate that ceramic-polymer hybrid coating filled with HA (the inorganic component found in bone) is an optimal choice for temporary orthopaedic implant scenarios.
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