Characterization of plasma sprayed hydroxyapatite/ZrO2 graded coating

Hydroxyapatite/ZrO2 graded coating was deposited onto Ti–6Al–4V substrate by atmospheric plasma spraying. The adhesive strength of the graded coating was tested and the bioactivity was evaluated in vitro by incubation test in the simulated body fluid (SBF). The results indicated that the graded coating has improved bonding strength and the crystallinity of hydroxyapatite can be improved using a post heat treatment. The bioactivity of the hydroxyapaptite/ZrO2 graded coating was also confirmed.