The preparation and properties of multifunctional coating of aluminum alloy for medical external application

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to improve anti-corrosion, self-cleaning, hydrophily and sterilization properties of aluminum (Al) alloy. Design/methodology/approach – A multifunctional coating for medical external application on Al alloy had been prepared by anodic oxidation, electrolytic coloring silver (Ag) and sealed in boiling water with nano-sized titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles. The multifunctional coating was characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Other properties such as corrosion-resistance, wipe-resistance, hydrophilicity, photochemical decomposition and bactericidal antiseptic effect were also investigated. Findings – The results demonstrate that a golden film with multi-function had been obtained for medical external application. The main phase of coating is amorphous Al2O3, and nano-sized silver particle is electrodeposited in bottom of film hole, while nano-sized TiO2 is sealed on the external surface of coating. The properties of film, such as anti-corrosion, self-cleaning, hydrophily, sterilization are better than those of Al alloy substrate. Originality/value – Considering about this usage for medical external application, a multifunctional coating which has the properties such as decoration, anti-corrosion, sterilize and self-cleaning has been first prepared on Al alloy surface in the study. This coating would meet the requirements of medical external using and provide theoretical and practical foundation about Al alloy for medical use.