Biofunctionalization of Ti–13Nb–13Zr alloy surface by plasma electrolytic oxidation. Part I

• The modification of Ti–13Nb–13Zr alloy surface by the PEO process in various suspensions is proposed.
• Various porous coatings formed on the substrate were characterized.
• The surface modification improved their corrosion resistance in Ringer's solution.

The surface of Ti–13Nb–13Zr alloy was modified in 0.1 M calcium hypophosphite (Ca(H2PO2)2) solutions via the addition of tricalcium phosphate, wollastonite or silica powders using a plasma electrolytic oxidation process. Depending on the anodizing bath chemical composition and applied voltage, various oxide layers were formed on the substrate. The morphology, cross-section and chemical composition of the Ti–13Nb–13Zr alloy surface were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (TL-XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. The surface roughness of the oxide layers was also measured. The corrosion behavior of the coatings was examined using potentiodynamic polarization in Ringer's solution. The surface modification improved their corrosion resistance in physiological fluid.