Abstract
The aim of the work was to obtain hybrid coatings containing silver, copper, and zinc nanoparticles on the TiAlV medical alloy via a sol–gel process. The developed layers were designed to bring about a bactericidal and fungicidal effect, as well as for protection against surgical scratches during the implantation of implants used in veterinary medicine. In this work, the authors focused on evaluating the microstructure (SEM + EDS); the structure (XRD, FTIR); and the surface properties, such as wettability, free surface energy, and roughness of layers with various concentrations of metallic nanoparticles (2 and 5 mol %). Our results confirmed that the sol–gel method enables the easy manufacturing of hybrid layers endowed with different porosity values as well as various shapes and sizes of metallic nanoparticles. A higher concentration of nanoparticles was observed on the surface containing 5 mol % of metallic salts. The highest degree of homogeneity was obtained for the layers containing silver nanoparticles. In addition, the silver nanoparticles were round and had the smallest dimensions, even below 20 nm. The FTIR and XRD structural studies confirmed the presence of an organosilicon matrix containing all three types of the metallic particles. We conclude that the higher concentration of nanoparticles influenced the alloy surface parameters.
Highlights
Titanium and its alloys have been widely used in medicine for many years
NPs formed as a result of chemical reactions in sols, and subsequent thermal treatment of coating was observed in the layers
The layers obtained by the sol–gel technique differed depending on the precursor used
Summary
Titanium and its alloys have been widely used in medicine for many years. Their applicability is based on the advantageous physical and chemical properties and good biocompatibility with human cells and tissues. Titanium and its alloys are most commonly used for orthopedic implants, such as hip joint prosthesis [5], knee implants [6], implants for external or internal stabilization of bone fractures [7], tiles, bolts, nails for osteosynthesis, spine stiffening devices [8], pins, bone tiles, bolts, intramedullary nails and external stabilizers [9,10], carbonized frames, and dental implants [11]. Titanium is used to develop external devices, as well as for orthotic terminals, artificial limbs, and surgical tools
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