Antibacterial activity and increased osteoblast cell functions of zinc calcium phosphate chemical conversion on titanium

To enhance the osteointegration and antibacterial property of titanium (Ti) implant, zinc calcium phosphate chemical conversion (Zn-Ca-PCC) was fabricated on pure Ti by phosphate chemical conversion technique. The surface of the coating was verified by combined techniques of scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry, atomic force microscopy and water contact angle measurements. Plate-like Zn-Ca-PCC coatings are built up on the surface of Ti. The results obtained from the antibacterial studies suggest that the Zn-Ca-PCC coatings can greatly inhibit the growth of both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria. Moreover, the in vitro evaluations demonstrate that the adhesion, proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts on Zn-Ca-PCC coatings were significantly enhanced compared with pure Ti. In conclusion, innovative Zn-Ca-PCC coatings on Ti with excellent antibacterial activity and biocompatibility are promising candidates for orthopedic and dental implants.