Mechanical properties of atomic layer deposition (ALD) TiO₂ layers on stainless steel substrates

Abstract

Surface modification techniques play a major role in shaping the physicochemical properties of 316 LVM steel used for implants. The utilised methods of surface layer modification must ensure repeatability and uniformity of the physical and chemical properties. The structure and chemical composition of 316 LVM steel implants can be modified using various methods, among which anode oxidation and sol‐gel methods are dominant. One of the more important aspects related to maintaining implants (e.g. vessel stents) is ensuring the maintenance of their geometric characteristics along their entire length, which some methods cannot guarantee. For this reason, the most appropriate technique of surface modification in this context appears to involve atomic layer deposition (ALD). Improved biocompatibility is also directly related to ensuring an appropriate set of mechanical properties for the deposited layer. Thus, the study attempted to assess the mechanical properties of the TiO 2 layers on a 316 LVM steel substrate, deposited using an atomic layer deposition‐based method.