Immobilization of TiO2 nanofibers on titanium plates for implant applications

Abstract Nanofibers have shown good biological performances such as improved cell adhesion and differentiation; therefore, nanofibrous modification of dental and bone implants might enhance osseo-integration. The purpose of this study was to investigate the nanofibrous modification of titanium implants. TiO2 nanofibers were fabricated by the electrospinning method using a mixture of Ti(IV)isopropoxide and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) in acidic alcohol solution. Then the nanofibers were immobilized on the NaOH/HCl-treated titanium plates by inducing the alcohol condensation reaction of Ti(IV)isopropoxide with Ti–OH group on the titanium surface and subsequent calcination (500–1000 °C). The immobilized TiO2 nanofibers were characterized by SEM, XRD and a simulated removal test. The diameter of the TiO2 nanofibers could be controlled within the range of 20–350 nm by changing the amounts of Ti(IV)isopropoxide and PVP. Phase transformation from anatase to rutile was observed after calcination. After the simulated removal test, TiO2 nanofibers remained on titanium surface. These TiO2 nanofibers on titanium plates could be used for the surface modification of titanium implants to improve the osseo-integration.