Nanotechnology improves prosthetics' biocompatibility

New Materials Asia, Sept, 2006

Researchers at a Singaporean university have discovered that coating titanium alloy implants with calcium phosphate (CP) increases the likelihood of these implants being accepted by the host body.

In the fields of implants and prosthetics, calcium phosphate coatings on titanium alloy implants are proving their worth in orthopaedic and dental applications. The most promising form of CP are hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings, which are used to promote rapid bone remodelling on the titanium alloy implants.

The microstructure of these coatings significantly influences their mechanical properties and biocompatibility. Understanding the effect of nanostructures within a coating contributes greatly towards improving the effectiveness of these coatings.

A study by KA Khor, H Li and P Cheang of Nanyang Technological University investigated and characterized the nanostructures and in vitro osteoblast behaviour of individual CP coating "splats", which were deposited using both plasma spraying and high-velocity oxy-fuel on polished titanium alloy substrates.

The results showed that the nanostructured HA splats are capable of enhancing the attachment and proliferation of the osteoblast cells.

For further information, contact: The School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798; Internet: www.ntu.edu.sg