Enhancement of the mechanical and biological properties on Zn/Ag co-implanted TiN via ions contents regulation

Abstract Most orthopedic and dental implants are made of Ti and its alloys due to the excellent biocompatibility and machinability. However, low hardness, biologically inert and poor antibacterial property block its application in the field of hard tissue repair. Therefore, in this study, TiN co-implanted with Zn and Ag (Zn/Ag-TiN) with different contents using the plasma immersion ion implantation system was modified on the surface of titanium alloy to evaluate the mechanical properties, biological properties and antibacterial activities. X-ray photoelectron spectrometer was used to determine the chemical state and composition of samples. The tests of hardness, elastic modulus and scratch of different samples were performed by the nano indenter XP system. Biocompatibility and antibacterial properties were evaluated by MC3T3-E1 cells, bovine serum albumin (BSA) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) in vitro. Results indicate that Zn/Ag(1.5 h)-TiN with the largest content of Zn and Ag exhibits the strongest hardness and adhesion strength, the highest protein adsorption capacity, the best cell adhesion and spreading activity, and ideal proliferation, as well as antibacterial activities, which makes it have great application prospects in orthopedic materials.