Bio-activation of Ni-free Zr-based bulk metallic glass by surface modification

A bone-like apatite layer was successfully deposited on the surface of the Ni-free Zr60.5Cu19.5Fe5Al9.5Ti5.5 bulk metallic glass (BMG) by using a hybrid technique of micro-arc oxidation (MAO) and a biomimetic process. The Zr-based BMG was initially modified via MAO which led to the formation of a porous and rough ZrO2 layer on the BMG surface. After subsequent immersion in a simulated body fluid, a bone-like apatite could be spontaneously and promptly formed on the ZrO2 layer, demonstrating a good bioactivity. The present work provides a promising technique for bioactive surface modification of Zr-based bulk metallic glasses, which could pave a way to medical application of the newly developed BMG materials.