Biomaterials Modification Using Plasma Technologies

Plasma modification is an effective and economical surface treatment technique for many biomaterials. The technique offers the unique advantage that the surface properties and biocompatibility can be enhanced selectively while the favorable bulk characteristics of the materials remain unchanged. For instance, mechanically sturdy materials with good wear and corrosion resistance can be modified to improve the surface bioactivity in biomedical applications. Existing materials can thus be used and needs for new classes of materials may be obviated thereby shortening the time to develop novel and better biomedical implants. Recent work conducted in our laboratory pertaining to the improvement of surface bioactivity and properties of various types of biomaterials will be presented. We have fabricated bioactive TiO₂ coatings using nano-particle plasma spraying in conjunction with plasma immersion ion implantation. These nano-structured ceramic coatings can also be made bioactive using ultra-violet light irradiation. Recent results on plasma-treated biomaterials used in blood-contacting applications such as artificial heart valves will be described. Materials discussed include diamond-like carbon, titanium oxide, and rare-earth oxide. The biocompatibility of and impediment of nickel from orthopedic NiTi shape memory alloys will also be discussed.