Corrosion and antibacterial characterization of Ag‐DLC coatingon a new CoCrNbMoZr dental alloy

Abstract

The paper aim is to compare corrosion and antibacterial characterization of a new CoCrNbMoZr alloy before and after coating with diamond‐like carbon‐Ag (Ag‐DLC) compound films. The investigation of chemical structure of the deposited coating was undertaken using FTIR analysis. Surface characterization involved scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) with X rays energy dispersive analysis (EDX) investigations as well as contact angle measurements. Electrochemical stability tested in Tani–Zuchi saliva and simulated body fluid is higher compared to bare alloy in both bioliquids. Using Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa as model for Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria, respectively, an antibacterial effect of the coated alloy was found. The coating exibited a more hydrophilic character compared to the uncoated alloy and a higher antibacterial effect, the most significant being for S. aureus . Based on experimental data was established the dual potential of Ag‐DLC coating with the capacity to enhance corrosion resistance and bacterial inhibition towards P. aeruginosa and S. aureus in the oral cavity.