Photoluminescence of annealed biomimetic apatites

Biomimetic apatite coatings are widely used in orthopaedic applications to provide bioinert material surfaces with bioactive behaviour by means of initiating bone growth at the implant surface. In this study we manufactured biomimetic calcium phosphate coatings consisting of a calcium deficient carbonated apatite by immersing activated titanium platelets into simulated body fluid. The development of the crystal phases was monitored by X-ray diffractometry in addition to Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The microstructure of the biomimetic apatites and phase composition was analysed using scanning and transmission electron microscopy as well as attached energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry. The samples were annealed in air yielding in an inherent luminescence of the biomimetic apatite up to temperatures of 600 °C. The photo-induced emission spectra were recorded in the range from 400 to 750 nm at excitation wavelengths ranging 310-450 nm. A blue (437 nm) and a green (561 nm) emission were found between 200 and 600 °C visually appearing white. Photoluminescence of annealed biomimetic apatites might be of interest for histological probing and monitoring of bone re-modelling. The results are discussed in terms of chemical and crystallographic changes in the calcium phosphate layer during heat treatment.