Sterilization processes effects on the properties of a hybrid coating applied on Ti6Al4V alloy

The sterilization method, which is the last stage before the implantation of biomaterial, can influence on the material properties implanted. There are several sterilization methods being used, each one with their advantages... [ view full abstract ]

The sterilization method, which is the last stage before the implantation of biomaterial, can influence on the material properties implanted. There are several sterilization methods being used, each one with their advantages and disadvantages. These methods can even modify the materials surface, as well as, cause chemical, physical, morphological and biological changes. In the case of metallic implants, these mentioned properties affect directly the interactions with the host tissue and its biocompatibility. Hybrid coatings based on silicon precursors have been studied for application in the biomedical area aiming to improve the corrosion performance of metallic prostheses and also as an alternative method to improve the osteointegration process. In this context, three different types of sterilization were tested: steam autoclave, hydrogen peroxide and ethylene oxide, in order to evaluate their action on the surface properties of the hybrid coating. The hybrid coatings were obtained on Ti6Al4V substrate by dip-coating process from a sol constituted by TEOS and MTES. Their morphological changes and electrochemical behavior were evaluated after sterilization. Besides, the cytocompatibility study from viability, adhesion and morphology of MG-63 cells were carried out. The results showed that the steam autoclave sterilization method promoted greater changes in the morphological properties of the hybrid coating. In addition, the sterilization processes did not affect the cytotoxicity. However, the cell viability and morphology were affected by surface modifications due to the different sterilization methods tested.