Synthesis, characterization, and bioactivity of SrTiO3-incorporated titanium coating

Surface modification by the bioactive material is a potential way to overcome the poor osseoconductivity of titanium (Ti)-based implants. A continuous wave laser source was used to deposit strontium titanate (SrTiO3)-reinforced Ti coating on the Ti substrate using the laser engineered net shaping (LENS (TM)) process. The maximum of 10 wt% SrTiO3 could be incorporated into Ti using laser without cracking of the deposit. This study investigated the constituent phases, microstructure, compositional analysis, wettability, and electrochemical behavior of the composite coatings. XRD and EDX analyses confirmed the presence of the SrTiO3 phase in the coatings. The composite coatings also exhibited superior mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and bioactivity compared to that of commercially pure Ti. In vitro ion release study confirmed the sustain release of Sr2+ from the composite coatings. In summary, the excellent mechanical bonding with the substrate and high in vitro bioactivity make these SrTiO3-incorporated composite coatings as a potential material to enhance osseoconductivity of Ti-based orthopedic implants.