Physico-chemical characterization of zirconia–titania composites coated with an apatite layer for dental implants

ObjectivesTo investigate the crystalline phases, morphological features and functional groups on the surface of sintered Y:TZP/TiO2 composite ceramics before and after the application of a biomimetic bone-like apatite layer. The effect of TiO2 content on the composite's characteristics was also evaluated.MethodsSamples of Y:TZP containing 0–30 mol% TiO2 were synthesized by co-precipitation, followed by filtration, drying and calcination. The powders were uniaxially pressed and sintered at 1500 °C/1 h. To obtain biomimetic coatings the samples were exposed to sodium silicate solution and then to a concentrated simulated body fluid solution. The surfaces, before and after coating, were characterized by diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transformed spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy.ResultsThe surfaces of all Y:TZP/TiO2 samples were covered with a dense and uniform calcium phosphate layer with a globular microstructure. This layer was crystalline for specimens with 30% of TiO2 and amorphous for specimens with 0 and 10% of TiO2. Chemical analysis indicated that this layer was composed of type A carbonate apatite. Among the materials tested, the composite with 10% of TiO2 showed the best overall chemical and physical features, such as higher density and more cohesive amorphous apatite layer.SignificanceY-TZP-based materials obtained in the present investigation by means of the successful association of a calcium phosphate biomimetic layer with small amounts TiO2 should be further explored as an option for ceramic dental implants with improved bioactivity.