Plasma-Based Technology for Biomedical Applications

Plasma can be generated by different methods such as metallic vapor arc discharge, high frequency/high voltage glow discharge, sputtering, etc. A number of plasma techniques will be introduced to demonstrate the flexible processes to modify advanced materials for biomedical and biosensing applications. Hybrid plasma processes can be used to enhance the osteoblast compatibility and bioactivity of biodegradable polymers. By tuning the ratio of plasma exposure duration to energetic ion bombardment, the surface texture of PTFE can also be altered that the textured surface can be further grafted with hydroxyl and amino groups to tailor and direct the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. The antibacterial properties and bioactivity are the main concerns which may lead to post-surgery complications. Bacterial infection is highly related to the materials surface. In this respect, energetic oxygen ion bombardment can lead to formation of a compact surface oxide layer to enhance the antibacterial activity. In Vivo animal studies also reveal significant improvements in bone formation and inflammation. By controlling the particle size in conjunction with hydrogen ion implantation, titanium-based hard tissue replacements can induce the formation of hydroxyapatite. Magnesium alloys are revolutionary biomaterials due to natural biodegradation. However, the degradation rate of magnesium alloys is not satisfactory. Several plasma surface treatment protocols have been proposed to control the degradation rate of magnesium alloys. A highly sensitive biosensing platform can be obtained by hybrid plasma implantation and CVD processes. High conductive core-shell TiC/C nanofibers with good electrochemical response of glucose without of an enzyme will be discussed.