Modifying the TiAlZr biomaterial surface with coating, for a better anticorrosive and antibacterial performance

The paper investigates the increase of anticorrosive and antimicrobial properties of a composite elaborated by coating TiAlZr with Ag nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized by reducing silver salts using NaBH4, and were characterized using dynamic light scattering instrument to determine the size distribution. The morphological and elemental analysis of Ag nanoparticles on the TiAlZr surface were performed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy disperse spectroscopy (EDS). Antibacterial activity was evaluated on the basis of the inhibition of the growth of Escherichia coli bacteria, and of the electrochemical parameters from dynamic polarization tests performed in Ringers bioliquid. An empirical model of antibacterial effect of silver nanoparticles at biointerface in the presence of TiAlZr implant was discussed.