The bandwidth energies of the passive Ti film are relatively small. This is a factor that generates excellent biocompatibility. Credit: Department of Metallic Biomaterials, TMDU
Scientists at Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) used photoelectrochemical measurement and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to clarify the source of titanium biocompatibility when implanted in the body, such as hip replacements and dental implants. They find that its reactivity with the correct ions of the extracellular fluid allows the body to recognize it. This work can lead to newer-lasting medical implants that last longer.
Due to its excellent strength and corrosion resistance, titanium is commonly used in medical and dental implants. Over time, doctors have also observed that patients with titanium implants generate less immune response than is normally produced when a foreign material is placed inside the body. This has been explained from the biocompatibility of titanium. This biocompatibility can cause a problem, such as when screws made of titanium alloys become too assimilated into bone tissue after long-term implantation, making it difficult to remove later. Despite numerous studies on biological reactions with implanted materials, the reason for the biocompatibility of titanium remains poorly understood. A more complete explanation of the surface properties that give titanium these characteristics is needed.
Now, a team of TMDU-led researchers has tested titanium thin disks in a solution containing ions designed to mimic the body’s extracellular fluid as well as in saline. They measured how much photoelectric current was generated when light of various wavelengths was illuminated on the disks. They also performed X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to characterize the passive films that were naturally present on the surface of titanium.
“Passive films consisted of a very thin layer of TiO2 containing small amounts of Ti2O3 and TiO, hydroxyl groups and water. During polarization in Hanks, calcium and phosphate ions were incorporated or calcium phosphate was formed. but not in saline, “says first author Seong-Cheol Kim. Calcium phosphate also formed much more easily, which could help reduce the foreign body’s response.
“The reactivity of titanium with high corrosion resistance, as revealed in this experiment by its electronic band structure, is one of the main reasons for its excellent biocompatibility between metals,” says the author. corresponding Takao Hanawa. This research may lead to safer and less expensive implants for hip replacements or dental implants, because titanium is relatively rare and expensive.
The work is published in Advanced Materials Science and Technology.
The simulations reveal the role of calcium in the acceptance of titanium implants. Advanced Materials Science and Technology (2022). DOI: 10.1080 / 14686996.2022.2066960
Provided by Tokyo Medical and Dental University
Citation: exploring what gives titanium implants their remarkable biocompatibility (2022, May 24) recovered on May 25, 2022
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