A cytocompatible micro/nano-textured surface with Si-doped titania mesoporous arrays fabricated by a one-step anodization

- A hybrid micro/nano-textured surface doped with Si is fabricated by a one-step anodization.
- Different than the nanotubes, the TiO2 mesoporous arrays are honeycomb.
- NO3− plays a key role in mediating the formation of TiO2 mesoporous arrays.
- This surface is endowed with improved mechanical property and good osseointegration.

To mimic the hierarchical structure of bone tissues, a hybrid micro/nano-textured titanium surface with Si-doped TiO2 mesoporous arrays is fabricated by a one-step high current anodization (HCA). Specifically, the HCA is carried out in a electrolyte containing NO3− and SiO32 −. The NO3− in the electrolyte is demonstrated to play a key role in mediating the formation of honeycombed TiO2 mesoporous arrays, which are different than the nanotubes formed by the mediating of F− ion in the conventional anodization. This unique structure endows the coating with improved mechanical properties compared to the nanotube layer. In addition, the Si is incorporated into the coating in a concentration-dependent manner. With the increase of Si doping amount in the coating, both the hydrophilic properties and surface free energy of coatings are obviously enhanced. The cell culture test shows that the osteoblast behaviors on this surface are positively influenced by the doped Si. Therefore, this micro/nano-textured surface coating doped with Si may endow the Ti-based implants long-term stability and good osseointegration.