LAUSR

Abstract In the present study, hydroxyapatite/ZnO nanocomposite coatings were developed on NiTi superelastic alloy via pulse electrodeposition technique under three different current densities. The morphological observations (FESEM) indicated that under 6 mA/cm2, a compact, uniform composite layer could form, whereas lower or higher current densities resulted in non-uniform, porous coatings with uneven distribution of nanoparticles. XRD and FTIR studies revealed that pure hydroxyapatite was not achieved below 6 mA/cm2. Topographic features (AFM) were assessed and demonstrated a continuous rise in roughness parameters as current density increased. The corrosion behavior was investigated through potentiodynamic polarization as well as impedance spectroscopy techniques. According to the extracted data, the porosity and non-uniformity of coatings formed under 3 and 9 mA/cm2 caused a detrimental effect on the corrosion resistance of surfaces. The layer obtained under 6 mA/cm2 showed resistance (Rc) which was almost two times greater than those deposited under 3 and 9 mA/cm2 current densities. Last but not least, the bioactivity of coatings was evaluated in simulated body fluid. It was observed that more compact deposits offered more active sites for apatite nucleation, resulting in refined cauliflower-like grains. Accordingly, it can be asserted that the best composite coating was achieved under 6 mA/cm2 current density.