Incorporating TiO2 Nanoparticles to Enhance Corrosion Resistance, Cytocompatibility of PEO Calcium–Phosphate Coatings on Titanium

Abstract

Titanium and its alloys are widely used in biomedical implants due to their favorable mechanical properties and corrosion resistance; however, their natural surface lacks sufficient bioactivity. Micro-arc oxidation is a promising approach to producing bioactive coatings, and the incorporation of nanoparticles such as TiO2 may further improve their functionality. This study aimed to determine the optimal TiO2 nanoparticle concentration in the micro-arc oxidation electrolyte that ensures coating stability and biological safety. Calcium–phosphate coatings were fabricated on commercially pure titanium using micro-arc oxidation with two TiO2 concentrations: 0.5 wt.% (MAO 1) and 1 wt.% (MAO 2). Surface morphology, porosity, and phase composition were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Corrosion resistance was evaluated via potentiodynamic polarization in NaCl and Ringer’s solutions, while biocompatibility was assessed in vitro using HOS human osteosarcoma cells and MTT assays. Increasing the TiO2 content to 1 % decreased coating porosity (13.7 % vs. 26.3 % for MAO 1), enhanced corrosion protection, and reduced the friction coefficient compared to bare titanium. However, MAO 2 exhibited high cytotoxicity (81 % cell death) and partial structural degradation in the biological medium. MAO 1 maintained integrity and showed no toxic effects (3 % cell death). These results suggest that 0.5 % TiO2 is the optimal concentration, providing a balance between corrosion resistance, mechanical stability, and biocompatibility, supporting the development of safer implant coatings.