Plasma-based surface modifications and nano-structured multifunctional coatings for the next generation of biodegradable Mg-based bone-contact implants

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The use of dental implant is nowadays quite widespread, with a global dental implants market size valued at USD 3.77 billion in 2016. The positive outcome of the implant is related to several factors, such as, for example, the quality of the fixation bone that needs to be augmented when insufficient. Several clinical procedures are available. For example, guided bone regeneration (GBR) by membranes is a clinical practice recognised for being low invasive for the patient. Nevertheless, the two commercially available class of biomaterials (porous Ti or collagen-based membranes) present some drawbacks. Porous Ti needs to be removed when healing is completed, while collagen-based membranes exhibit an uncontrollable degradation rate. The query for new biomaterials is launched. Adsorbable metallic biomaterial, mainly Mg-based (for their intrinsic osteo-inductivity), are of particular interest. In one hand, they match the mechanical properties of Ti. In addition, in the other hand, they match the bio-functionality of collagen-based solutions. Magnesium-based materials, with targeted chemical formulations, lead to mechanical, electrochemical and biological properties compatible with orthopedic devices. Furthermore, the controlled degradation rate, the mechanical resistance and the cytocompatibility that is required from GBR, can be achieved by improving the surface properties of the biomaterial. A nanostructured coating can provide the material with an improved antibacterial behaviour, increase the radiopacity, enhance osteoconductivity, and even promote cell adhesion. These features can be targeted by a multi-step surface modification process of the Mg-alloy substrate, which include electrochemical pre-treatment, plasma-based deposition and a post-treatment. The aim of this project is to design, optimise and validate this multi-step process leading. By closing working together, Laval University, Plasmionique and Biotrics will explore the feasibility of a new class of biodegradable coatings with advanced functionalities. The versatility targeted in this project will make these new degradable biomaterials for a wide range of bone-contact applications, including dental and orthopedic.