Cubic mesoporous silica thin films coated on titanium to induce carbonated hydroxyapatite deposition

Cubic mesoporous silica thin films were synthesized on pure titanium by dip-coating method and then their bioactivity were evaluated through the induced deposition of bone-like carbonated hydroxyapatite (CHA) layer in vitro. The composition, microstructure and morphology of the films were characterized by small-angel X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectrum, nitrogen adsorption, electron microscopes and energy dispersive spectroscopy, etc. The surface Zeta potential of the films was investigated by electrokinetic analyzer for solid surface analysis. The results reveal that the films have three-dimensional cubic mesostructure. The mesoporous silica films are covered with a thin CHA layer after being soaked in a simulated body fluid (1.5 SBF) for 14 d, indicating its good bioactivity. The unique mesostructure and the presence of abundant electronegative silanol groups in physiological solution may be responsible for the bioactivity. ©, 2015, Science Press. All right reserved.