Apatite-Forming Ability of ZrO₂ Ceramics Enhanced by Sandblasting and Chemical Treatment and the Influence on Mechanical Properties

Abstract:

The apatite-forming ability of zirconia ceramics subjected to various surface treatments was investigated. Zirconia samples (Y-TZP) in the form of disks and rods were sandblasted and chemically etched in strong acids (HF, H₃PO₄, H₂SO₄) and/or in NaOH solution at an elevated temperature. The surface properties were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), wettability and roughness measurement. The ability to form bone-like apatite on the surface was evaluated by immersion of the sample in simulated body fluid, which has ion concentrations nearly equal to the inorganic part of human blood plasma. The effect of applied surface treatment on mechanical properties was investigated. Sandblasting resulted in significant increase of roughness. Chemical etching in H₃PO₄ and H₂SO₄ caused reduction of contact angle but this effect was lost when subsequent alkali treatment was applied. Etching in NaOH, H₂SO₄ and two-step treatment combining H₂SO₄ or H₃PO₄ with NaOH resulted in the formation of bone-like apatite after immersion in simulated body fluid. These results indicate that sandblasted and chemically etched zirconia may be capable of direct bonding with living bone through an apatite layer created on its surface in a human environment. To avoid possible mechanical failure sandblasting conditions need further optimization.

• Periodical: Key Engineering Materials (Volume 631)
• Pages: 8-12
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/KEM.631.8
• Online since: November 2014
• Authors: M. Kolafová*, A. Nežiková, J. Kamprle, J. Strnad, Z. Strnad
• Keywords: Bioactivity, Chemical Treatment, Dental Implant, Sandblasting, Zirconia, Zro₂

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