Laser induced anisotropic wetting on Ti–6Al–4V surfaces

• Dual laser treatment: patterning and nitriding.
• Anisotropic pattering for future nature-analogue anisotropic tooth restorations.
• Anisotropy in wetting for guiding cell/tissue interaction.
• Micro- and nano-structured implant surface.

The surface of the medical grade titanium alloy (Ti–6Al–4V) was modified using a millisecond laser to alter the topography and wetting behavior. We combined anisotropic surface patterning with a nitriding process which is essential for the protection of dental implants against corrosion and wear. While a homogenous nitride layer was achieved, the laser induced a surface topography composed of both micro- and nano-structures. The surface topography leads to anisotropy in wetting which is desired in next generation implant applications such as nature-analogue anisotropic dental restoration.