Influence of H₂SO₄ Treatment on Biological Properties of Plasma Sprayed Titania Coatings

In this work, the plasma sprayed titania coatings were treated by H₂SO₄ for 24h at room temperature to improve the biological properties. The bioactivity was measured by simulated body fluid soaking test, and the biocompatibility was evaluated by quantifying the grafted collagen amount and in vitro cell culture test. The results showed that titania coatings treated by 0.1M and 1M H₂SO₄ can induce bone-like apatite formation after immersion in SBF for 28 days, while the titania coating treated by 0.01M H₂SO₄ can not. H₂SO₄ treatment can promote the grafting of collagen on titania coatings. The in vitro cell culture test confirmed that collagen improved the cellular adhesion and proliferation on titania surface. In conclusion, a certain concentration of H₂SO₄ treatment is beneficial in improving the bioactivity and biocompatibility of plasma sprayed titania coatings.