Biofunctional Sr- and Si-loaded titania nanotube coating of Ti surfaces by anodization-hydrothermal process

Background Two frequent problems associated with titanium (Ti) surfaces of bone/dental implants are their corrosion and lack of native tissue integration. Methods Here, we present an anodization-hydrothermal method for coating Ti surfaces with a layer of silicon (Si)- and strontium (Sr)-loaded titania nanotubes (TNs). The Ti surfaces coated with such a layer (Si-Sr-TNs) were characterized with different techniques. Results The results indicate that the Si4+ and Sr2+ ions were evenly incorporated into the TNs and that the Si-Sr-TN layer provides good protection against corrosive media like simulated body fluid. The excellent cytocompatibility of the coating was confirmed in vitro by the significant growth and differentiation of MC3T3-E1 osteoblastic cells. Conclusion Being easily and economically fabricated, the Si-Sr-TN surfaces may find their niche in clinical applications, thanks to their excellent biological activity and corrosion resistance.