Objetivo
Program of present research activity is aimed at the production and characterization of thin films - biocompatible coatings used for biomedical applications (surgery implants). Among the methods of film deposition, Electron Beam Sputtering and Pulsed Laser Deposition are applied. Titanium is used as a substrate. Increased use of Titanium and Titanium-base alloys in medicine is occurring due to their relatively low elasticity modulus and enhanced corrosion resistance. To improve bone response and reliability of implanted device, the surface of implant is modified by coating it with various substances. Titanium Carbide films were discovered by us to be a suitable protection against oxidation giving enhanced hardness and excellent corrosion resistance of the implant.
The present program is aimed at the study of other carbides (Zirconium, Hafnium, Tantalum) to be applied as coatings. Another coating material proposed by this project is calcium phosphate based bioceramics, which has close resemblance to the chemical and mineral components of teeth and bone and is used in many medical, orthopedic and dental applications. Therefore, two different classes of coatings will be studied. Complete characterization of the aforementioned films: hardness measurements, thickness measurements, SEM- EDS analysis of the film surface, X-ray Diffraction analysis of the film composition is planned to be performed.
Another problem to be solved in the following: since heat treatments are used either to prepare bioceramics (synthetic apatites) or to coat metallic implant by plasma spray, the thermal stability of bioceramics is the problem of major importance. Therefore, the present work is aimed at the investigation of the high temperature properties of the synthetic apatites. For this purpose, the following techniques are planned to be used: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy coupled with matrix isolation technique; Thermogravimetry, X-ray Diffraction, Synchrotron radiation.
Ámbito científico
- natural scienceschemical sciencesinorganic chemistryinorganic compounds
- natural scienceschemical sciencesinorganic chemistrytransition metals
- engineering and technologymaterials engineeringcoating and films
- natural sciencesphysical sciencesopticsspectroscopyabsorption spectroscopy
- natural sciencesphysical sciencesopticslaser physicspulsed lasers
Palabras clave
Convocatoria de propuestas
FP6-2004-MOBILITY-7
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Régimen de financiación
IIF - Marie Curie actions-Incoming International FellowshipsCoordinador
Italia