Preparation of high-quality pure titanium SLA surface and evaluation of its physicochemical and biological properties - in vitro experiments.

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to prepare high-quality sandblasted large-grit acid-etched surfaces of pure titanium and to evaluate their physicochemical and biological properties.

Methods: We investigated the acid-etching parameters of pure titanium under two sandblasting conditions, focusing on acid concentration, temperature, and time, utilizing an orthogonal experimental design. The optimal conditions for each sandblasted titanium surface were determined through range analysis, enabling the production of high-quality sandblasted large-grit acid-etched surfaces. Surface properties, including morphology and elemental composition, were assessed, along with biocompatibility tests for cell adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation.

Results: For sandblasted group a, the optimal acid-etching parameters were a mixture of 4.6 mol/L sulfuric acid and 0.814 mol/L hydrochloric acid at 60 °C for 60 min, which yielded a moderately rough surface (Group A: Sa = 1.30 ± 0.07μm). The optimal acid etching parameters for sandblasting group b were etching at 80 °C for 30 min in the same mixed solution to form a rough surface (Group B: Sa = 2.60 ± 0.10μm). Both surface treatments resulted in hydrophilicity and superior cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation compared with those of the controls.

Conclusions: Different parameters of large-particle sandblasting and acid etching treatments can create pure titanium surfaces with varying degrees of roughness. However, both of which demonstrate favorable physicochemical and biological properties.