Surface functionalization of PEEK with silicon nitride

Biomed Mater. 2020 Dec 11;16(1). doi: 10.1088/1748-605X/abb6b1.

Abstract

Surface roughness, bioactivity, and antibacterial properties are desirable in skeletal implants. We hot-pressed a mix of particulate sodium chloride (NaCl) salt and silicon nitride (β-Si3N4) onto the surface of bulk PEEK. NaCl grains were removed by leaching in water, resulting in a porous PEEK surface embedded with sim15 vol% β-Si3N4particles. This functionalized surface showed the osteogenic and antibacterial properties previously reported in bulk silicon nitride implants. Surface enhancement of PEEK with β-Si3N4could improve the performance of spinal fusion cages, by facilitating arthrodesis and resisting bacteria.

Keywords: PEEK; bacteriostasis; osteogenesis; silicon nitride; surface functionalization.

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents* / chemistry
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents* / pharmacology
  • Bacteria / drug effects
  • Benzophenones* / chemistry
  • Benzophenones* / pharmacology
  • Biocompatible Materials* / chemistry
  • Biocompatible Materials* / pharmacology
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Cell Proliferation / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Materials Testing
  • Osteogenesis / drug effects
  • Polymers* / chemistry
  • Polymers* / pharmacology
  • Prostheses and Implants / microbiology
  • Silicon Compounds* / chemistry
  • Silicon Compounds* / pharmacology
  • Sodium Chloride / chemistry
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Benzophenones
  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Polymers
  • Silicon Compounds
  • polyetheretherketone
  • Sodium Chloride
  • silicon nitride