Development of Bio-Metallic Implants Coated with Biopolymer for Composite Coating

To enhance biocompatibility and bone integration while avoiding human toxicity when utilized for dental or implant for orthopedics, the present research intends to coat stainless steel 316L substrate with a hybrid bio-composite made of chitosan (Chi) and polycaprolactone (PCL) as polymer matrix strengthened by natural substances like pumpkin (PUM) and hydroxyapatite (HA). The coating surface morphology was examined using SEM, the coated samples' hardness was analyzed using a hardness test, and their contact-wetting characteristics were examined to determine their wettability behavior. Additionally, the functionalized coatings; and antimicrobial activity was ascertained. When HA-Pum nanoparticles were applied to the 316L substrate, the SEM findings showed a homogenous structure, uniform dispersion, good border of reinforcement with the matrix, and coating layers devoid of cracks. According to the findings of the hardness test, the specimen (HA-Pum with mixed matrix) had the maximum hardness. The contact angle data demonstrated the best hydrophilic characteristic of HA-Pum with a blend matrix. The hybrid composite covering demonstrated the most effective bacterial resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus germs. With improved wettability and biocompatibility, these results highlight the intriguing possibilities of the created nanoparticle coatings for use in orthopedics. Since biocompatible coatings are employed in scientific investigations due to their biocompatibility with living tissues, they hold promise for advancing orthopedic and biomedical engineering.