Bioactivity and osteoblast response of the micro-arc oxidized zirconia films

Zirconia films containing Ca and P were prepared by micro-arc oxidation (MAO) of zirconium. The microstructure, in vitro bioactivity, and primary osteoblast response of the films were investigated as a function of the applied voltages in the range of 400-500 V. The results indicate that the MAO-formed zirconia films are porous and nanocrystalline, and predominantly composed of tetragonal zirconia (t-ZrO₂). The pores and grains sizes and t-ZrO₂ content of the films tend to increase with the applied voltages. The zirconia films formed at higher voltages have higher amount of CaO and phosphate and slightly lower amount of Zr-OH groups. Although, all of the zirconia films can be fully covered by bone-like apatite after immersion in simulated body fluids (SBF) within 10 days, there exists remarkable difference in apatite-induced time. The apatite-forming ability of the films is not only ascribed to Zr-OH groups on the surfaces, but also enhanced by the CaO and phosphate ions incorporated into ZrO₂. Osteoblasts on the films are observed to attach, proliferate, and grow in good state, and have good alkaline phosphatase activity. It is suggested that the MAO-formed ZrO₂ films exhibit favorable bioactivity and biocompatibility.