Electrochemical and in Vitro Bioactivity of Niobium Nitride Coatings on Ti6Al4V Alloy Bio-Implants

نویسندگان

1 Laboratory of Materials and Environment for Sustainable Development (LR18ES10), University of Tunis El Manar, ISSBAT, Tunis, Tunisia

2 North Refineries Company, Ministry of Oil, Iraq

3 Laboratory of Multifunctional Materials and Applications (LaMMA), LR16ES18, University of Sfax, Faculty of Sciences, Sfax, Tunisia

4 Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Baghdad, Iraq

doi
10.22052/JNS.2024.03.019
چکیده

 Niobium Nitride (NbN) film deposition has emerged as a pivotal process in modifying the surface properties of the Ti6Al4V alloy, a material widely recognized for its excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. This innovative approach not only enhances the alloy’s suitability for various medical applications but also paves the way for future advancements in biomedical technology. By applying NbN films to the surface of Ti6Al4V, researchers are addressing critical challenges in medical device performance, particularly in the areas of wear resistance and corrosion resistance, which are essential for the longevity and reliability of implants. The microstructural morphologies of the thin films were assessed through field emission scanning electron microscopy, highlighting the significant impact of NbN nanoparticles on the surface characteristics of the nanocoated Ti6Al4V. Electrochemical studies conducted through cyclic polarization measurements indicated a decreased corrosion rate of 4.02 × 10-4 mmpy for the sputter-deposited samples compared to 4.79 × 10-1 mmpy for the uncoated sample. In vitro biocompatibility characterization in simulated body fluid demonstrated the growth of a hydroxyapatite layer on the NbN-coated Ti6Al4V surface, with its relative thickness increasing at higher sputtering power and substrate deposition temperature. These findings underscore the superior biocompatibility and enhanced corrosion protection of nanostructured NbN coatings over Ti6Al4V compared to uncoated Ti6Al4V specimens.