Formation of an anti-bacterial oxide film on Ti-Ta alloy by anodic oxidation

Recently, Ti-Ta alloys have been expected to be as candidates for dental or orthopedic implants because of their low elastic modulus and high corrosion resistance. However, Ti-Ta alloys do not have the properties to protect against bacterial infection. An anti-bacterial coating was fabricated on the Ti-Ta alloy surface by anodic oxidation (AO) and its surface properties were investigated. The anodic oxidized (AOed) film exhibited a roughened surface dotted with micropores. In addition, the AOed surface is more hydrophilic than the Ti-Ta alloy. The results of an anti-bacterial test revealed that the AOed surface possessed excellent antibacterial rate against Staphylococcus aureus (98.5%).