Preparation and characterization of zirconium nitride and hydroxyapatite layered coatings for biomedical applications

Different layers of zirconium nitride (ZrN) and hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings were prepared on cp Ti substrate for biomedical applications. The main idea is to improve the mechanical strength as well as the biocompatibility of the coating. ZrN is known for its high mechanical strength, corrosion resistance. HA is well known for its biocompatibility properties. Hence, in this study, both materials were coated on a cp Ti substrate with bottom layer with ZrN for good bonding with substrate and the top layer with HA for induce bioactivity. Middle layer was formed by a composite of HA and ZrN. Detail analyses of the layered coatings for its structural, morphological, topographical properties were carried out. Then the mechanical property of the layered coatings was analyzed by nanoindentation. Biomimetic growths of apatite on the functionally graded coatings were determined by simulated body fluid method. This study provides promising results to use this kind of coatings in biomedical field.