Investigation of Ni Doped Zr Metal Ion Scaffolds by Coprecipitation Method for Structural and Biomaterial Applications

Nickel-substituted zirconium particles (Zr_1-xNi_xO₂, x = 0, 0.08, 0.18, 0.28, and 0.38) were prepared employing the coprecipitation method. Rietveld refinement supplemented with X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed that the cubic crystal structure existed even after addition of Ni²⁺ ions. Elemental identification was confirmed via energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), while scanning electron micrography indicated an irregular, rod-like form following mechanical milling. Optical property was investigated by UV–vis spectroscopy, which provided band gap, and photoluminescence (PL) measurement, which revealed electron-hole recombination with peak emission at 530 nm. Electron density distribution was also explored to verify charge transfer in the material. Antibacterial activity of the nanoparticles was examined against Streptococcus oralis and Bacteroides fragilis and exhibited satisfactory antimicrobial activity. Besides, hemolysis tests were also performed to measure red blood cell destruction. The findings were used to establish the optimal Ni concentration that has to be maintained for preserving structural and functional features of the host lattice of Zr. This study opens avenues for the construction of improved biomaterials for possible use in antimicrobial treatment and biomedical engineering.