Biofunctional Sr- and Si-loaded titania nanotube coating of Ti surfaces by anodization-hydrothermal process

BACKGROUND: Two frequent problems associated with titanium (Ti) surfaces of bone/dental implants are their corrosion and lack of native tissue integration. METHODS: Here, we present an anodization-hydrothermal method for coating Ti surfaces with a layer of silicon (Si)- and strontium (Sr)-loaded titania nanotubes (TNs). The Ti surfaces coated with such a layer (Si–Sr-TNs) were characterized with different techniques. RESULTS: The results indicate that the Si(4+) and Sr(2+) ions were evenly incorporated into the TNs and that the Si–Sr-TN layer provides good protection against corrosive media like simulated body fluid. The excellent cytocompatibility of the coating was confirmed in vitro by the significant growth and differentiation of MC3T3-E1 osteoblastic cells. CONCLUSION: Being easily and economically fabricated, the Si–Sr-TN surfaces may find their niche in clinical applications, thanks to their excellent biological activity and corrosion resistance.