Electrochemically assisted deposition of thin CaP coatings

Abstract

Calcium phosphate (CaP) coatings have long been known to have a positive influence on implant integration into bone. Several methods for the formation of such coatings are known; this chapter focuses on the process of electrochemically assisted deposition (ECAD). With this highly reproducible biomimetic method, CaP coatings are generated on electrically conductive substrates in aqueous solutions. The fact that the process can take place at ambient temperature and neutral pH allows the deposition of coatings containing inorganic and especially organic components. Following a general description of the method and its basic principle, the influence of the deposition conditions on the coating properties is discussed in detail regarding a number of parameters. Among them are electrolyte composition, temperature, electrochemical mode used, and the effect of organic or inorganic additives. Variations of the said parameters can affect the composition of the phases deposited, the total coating mass, the mechanical characteristics, and a number of other properties. In addition to the physicochemical stability of ECAD coatings, another important aspect is the biological efficiency and compatibility of the coatings. In this context, cell biological investigations, animal studies, and experience from clinical applications are reviewed. The final aspect addressed in the chapter focuses on the characterization of ECAD-derived coatings in relation to the regulatory pathway and the prospects for industrial applications. © 2009 Springer-Verlag New York.