Laser-Induced Surface Modification on Wollastonite-Tricalcium Phosphate and Magnesium Oxide-Magnesium Stabilized Zirconia Eutectics for Bone Restoring Applications

Abstract

An adaptation of the laser floating zone technique is used to modify the surface properties of ceramics with interest for biomedical applications. This new method is based upon the surface remelting of ceramic rods by using laser radiation, and its versatility is demonstrated in the surface structuring of two different eutectic composites with potential application as bone substitutes. Firstly, directionally eutectic rods of wollastonite (W)–tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and magnesium oxide (MgO)–magnesium stabilized zirconia (MgSZ) were grown by the laser floating zone technique. In the case of W-TCP eutectics, materials with crystalline, glass–ceramic, or vitreous microstructure could be obtained as the growth rate was increased. In the other case, a material made up of magnesium oxide and magnesium stabilized zirconia phases arranged in fibrillar or lamellar geometry was obtained. At higher solidification rates, the rupture of the growth front gave rise to the organization of the phases in the form of colonies or cells. The laser zone remelting technique was used to remove defects and to refine the microstructure of the directionally solidified eutectic surfaces as well as to cover MgO–MgSZ rods with W–TCP glass in the eutectic composition. The study provides a promising technique that can tailor the surface properties and functionality of bone repair materials. The products’ properties and challenges in preparation procedures are discussed.

Surface Activation of Calcium Zirconate-Calcium Stabilized Zirconia Eutectic Ceramics with Bioactive Wollastonite-Tricalcium Phosphate Coatings

“…Along with their good biocompatibility, zirconia materials find many applications in bone surgery and dental applications [1][2][3]. Eutectic ceramics are arousing considerable interest due to their good mechanical behavior, but they should be enhanced by reducing aging sensitivity and improving osteointegration performance [4,5].…”