Sub-picosecond laser surface modification of Ti–Ni alloy and its antibacterial activity

Abstract

Surface modification of titanium nickelide (Ti–Ni) alloy improves its properties, forming a barrier oxidized/carbonized subsurface layer, which blocks the release of toxic nickel ions. We have modified Ti–Ni alloys by structuring the surface with sub-picosecond laser at different radiation parameters. The modified surface was characterized using scanning electron microscopy and layer-by-layer energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. The antibacterial properties of structured surfaces were tested against the planktonic culture of Staphylococcus aureus, and the viability was measured by ‘Live/Dead’ microbiological staining method.