Sol-gel synthesis, characterization and properties of TiO2 and Ag-TiO2 coatings on titanium substrate

Abstract

Abstract The aim of this study is the sol-gel synthesis of TiO 2 and Ag-TiO 2 coatings which would provide corrosion resistance and reduce bacterial adhesion when deposited on titanium substrate. The molar ratios of AgNO 3 :H 2 O 2 :TiO 2 were 0.0037:2:1. The composition of the sols was checked using UV/Vis spectroscopy. The properties of the obtained coatings were investigated using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with chemical analysis, and 3D profilometry. Electrochemical studies were performed in a simulated physiological solution and demonstrated good protection of the TiO 2 and Ag-TiO 2 coatings for the titanium substrate. Dissolution of silver from the coating was qualitatively followed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The adhesion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa as a biofilm forming bacteria commonly found in orthopaedic applications was reduced in the presence of silver and the bacteria shape destroyed. No cytotoxicity of the coatings on human osteoblastoma cells was noticed. Our results suggest that TiO 2 and Ag-TiO 2 coatings obtained by a green synthesis sol-gel route at low temperature can be tailored to offer properties suitable for biomedical applications.