Characterization of zeolite/bioglass nanocomposites for surface coating of stainless steel material for bone implantation.

This study was focused on the preparation and deposition of zeolite/bioglass nanocomposites on 316 stainless steel substrates by the electrophoretic technique. Transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses were carried out to evaluate the size, shape, and structure of the prepared nanocomposites. The formation of apatite in the simulated body fluid on the coated substrates was studied for 21 days. The morphology of the coating samples was examined before and after the immersion via scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that by increasing the bioglass content, the apatite formation on the coatings was enhanced. The biocorrosion tests of Tafel polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were employed to evaluate the protective properties and biocorrosion resistance of the coatings. The biocorrosion resistance of the samples coated with zeolite/bioglass nanocomposites was superior to the uncoated ones, which was significantly improved by increasing the bioglass content. Moreover, it was also found that the biocompatible coatings reduced the release of metallic ions and promoted the osseointegration property. Highlights: Uniform zeolite nanoparticles are synthesized by facile sol-gel method. EPD is a rapid and low-cost technique for applying defectless ZBN coatings with high interface strength. Formation of a uniform adhering hydroxyapatite layer after 21 days confirms the bioavailability of the ZBN coatings. Corrosion-resistant zeolite/30% bioglass coating is obtained by optimization of voltage and heat treatment temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]