Anti-allergy and wear resistant coatings for orthopedic implants and medical devices

• Research unit: INNOSUISSE
• Project number: 15530.1 PFNM-NM

Short description (German)

Anti-allergy and wear resistant coatings for orthopedic implants and medical devices

Short description (English)

Anti-allergy and wear resistant coatings for orthopedic implants and medical devices

Abstract (German)

This project addresses the integration of materials science and advanced coating technologies to|develop a new generation of biocompatible coatings to provide sustainable improvements in the|longevity of orthopaedic implants and medical devices.|The artificial joint components are made of metals, ceramics and/or polymers. Metals produce|wear debris and release metal ions, which can cause allergic reactions and necrotic tissue.|Ceramics are bioinert and wear resistant but prone to fracture, disastrous for patient. By|combining high fracture toughness of metals with chemical inertness of ceramics, this project aims|at prolonging implant life with substantially lower production costs by applying niobium-titanium|nitride coatings on metallic substrates. In addition, niobium-rich coatings are expected to favour|the formation of smooth coatings, therefore polishing of bearing joints will no longer be necessary.|The final coatings will be upscaled to antibacterial and hypoallergenic performance up on the|incorporation of small amount of cytotoxic elements.

Abstract (English)

This project addresses the integration of materials science and advanced coating technologies to|develop a new generation of biocompatible coatings to provide sustainable improvements in the|longevity of orthopaedic implants and medical devices.|The artificial joint components are made of metals, ceramics and/or polymers. Metals produce|wear debris and release metal ions, which can cause allergic reactions and necrotic tissue.|Ceramics are bioinert and wear resistant but prone to fracture, disastrous for patient. By|combining high fracture toughness of metals with chemical inertness of ceramics, this project aims|at prolonging implant life with substantially lower production costs by applying niobium-titanium|nitride coatings on metallic substrates. In addition, niobium-rich coatings are expected to favour|the formation of smooth coatings, therefore polishing of bearing joints will no longer be necessary.|The final coatings will be upscaled to antibacterial and hypoallergenic performance up on the|incorporation of small amount of cytotoxic elements.