Preparation and cytocompatibility of Si-incorporated nanostructured TiO2 coating

Silicon (Si)-incorporated TiO2 coating with porous and nanostructured surface on titanium was prepared by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO). The microstructure, phase composition and elemental distribution of the coating were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry. MG63 cells were cultured on the surface of the coating to investigate its cytocompatibility. Potentiodynamic polarization tests were used to measure its corrosion resistance. The results showed that Si was successfully incorporated and distributed homogeneously in the coating. The Si-incorporated coating showed a denser and finer coating structure and higher MG63 cell proliferation rate and vitality than Si-free coating. The corrosion resistance of the Si-incorporated coating was also significantly improved. In conclusion, it is an interesting and promising way to regulate the functions of the coatings by introducing desired elements, such as Si, by PEO technique.