The effect of doping different amounts of boron on the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of TiO2 nanotubes synthesized on SLM Ti6Al4V samples

Abstract

This comprehensive study investigates the corrosion and biocompatibility performances of boron-doped TiO2 nanotubes (TNT) synthesized on Ti6Al4V alloy produced by the selective laser melting (SLM) process. Structural analysis reveals a consistent reduction in nanotube diameter across varying boron doping levels (0.05 - 2 M boric acid doping), with B4-TNT exhibiting the smallest diameter at 190 nm. Boron incorporation induces phase transformation and decreases in diameter of nanotubes, influencing the material's structural properties. Corrosion resistance assessments indicate a significant enhancement, with B4-TNT demonstrating the highest polarization resistance (Rt = 2849.03 kΩ.cm2). The observed improvements are attributed to the combination of reduced nanotube diameter, altered phase structure, and increased polarization resistance, collectively contributing to enhanced corrosion resistance. Biocompatibility experiments conducted with human fibroblast cells (HDFa) reveal that B-doped TNTs foster increased cell viability compared to undoped TNT and uncoated alloy surfaces. These findings underscore the potential of boron doping as a strategic approach to improve corrosion resistance and enhance the biocompatibility of Ti6Al4V implants. This study provides valuable insights for advancing materials in biomedical applications with improved structural, corrosion-resistant, and biocompatible properties.