In situ preparation of nano cone-like structures on 3D printed titanium alloy implants via one-step femtosecond laser manufacturing for better osseointegration, anti-corrosion, and anti-fatigue

Abstract

The poor surface conditions and osseointegration capacity of 3D printed Ti6Al4V implants (3DPT) significantly influence their performance as orthopedic and dental implants. In this work, we creatively introduce a one-step femtosecond laser treatment to improve the surface conditions and osteointegration. The surface characterization, mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and biological responses were investigated. These results found that femtosecond laser eliminated defects like embedded powders and superficial cracks while forming the nano cones-like structures surface on 3DPT, leading to enhanced osseointegration, anti-corrosion, and anti-fatigue performance. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed the ablation removal mechanism and the formation of nano cone-like structures. These findings were further supported by the in vivo studies, showing that the FS-treated implants had superior bone-implant contact and osseointegration. Hence, the one-step femtosecond laser method is regarded as a promising surface modification method for improving the functional performance of Ti-based orthopedic implants.