Modification strategies for improving antibacterial properties of polyetheretherketone

Abstract Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a semi‐crystalline thermoplastic polymer that has been gradually used in the repair of bone defects because its well chemical stability, reliable biocompatibility, excellent X‐ray radiolucency, and low modulus. However, PEEK biologically inert material, planktonic bacteria can adhere to surface eventually form biofilms, allowing for rapid development implant‐related infections. This review mainly introduces two important antibacterial modification strategies: coating morphology modification. Antibacterial include antibiotics, natural extracts, antimicrobial peptides, polymers, metals metal oxides, selenium, fluoride, silicon nitride, graphene oxide. These coatings exert their effect by inhibiting bacterial adhesion, killing contact, or actively releasing substances. In terms topography, different microstructures have respective functions. Conical cylindrical structures stress on causing rupture cell membrane kill bacteria. Nano protrusions particles smaller than size inhibit adhesion reducing contact area PEEK. The pit structure close prevent between adjacent delay formation biofilm.