Enhanced corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of Ti implants by Si-doped coatings

In this study, we prepared a silicon-containing electrolyte solution and a silicon-containing titanium dioxide coating (Si–TiO₂) on the surface of medical titanium by way of microarc oxidation. The surface properties of the formed Si–TiO₂ were evaluated using field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and a profilometer. The corrosion resistance of Si–TiO₂ was evaluated by way of an electrochemical workstation. The biocompatibility and biological activity of Si–TiO₂ were evaluated using in vitro cell culture. The results indicated that Si–TiO₂ could be successfully deposited on the surface of titanium using microarc oxidation, and XRD confirmed that the Si–TiO₂ was mainly composed of titanium dioxide. The Nyquist curve and Tafel curve indicated that the surface Si–TiO₂ improved the corrosion resistance of titanium. In vitro cell experiments confirmed that Si–TiO₂ promoted the adhesion and proliferation of the MC3T3-E1 cells. In conclusion, microarc oxidation could be used to introduce silicon onto the surface of titanium implants, and this porous surface not only improved the wear and corrosion resistance of titanium but also had good biological activity. Thus, the use of Si–TiO₂ on titanium implants warrants further research for potential clinical applications.