Electrophoretic deposition of polyvinyl alcohol, C–H NRs along with moringa on an SS substrate for orthopedic implant applications

Metals are commonly used in bone implants due to their durability and load-bearing capabilities, yet they often suffer from biofilm growth and corrosion. To overcome these challenges, implants with enhanced biocompatibility, bioactivity, and antimicrobial properties are preferred. Stainless steel (SS) implants are widely favored in orthopedics for their mechanical strength and cost-effectiveness. To address the issues related to SS implants, we developed composite coatings using synthetic biopolymer polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), calcium hydrate (C–H) nanorods for improved bioactivity and antibacterial properties, and Moringa oleifera to enhance osteogenic induction. These coatings were deposited on 316L SS through electrophoretic deposition (EPD), providing protection against body fluids and enhancing the corrosion resistance of the SS. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the presence of the desired tobermorite crystal structure, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed nanorod-like C–H structures, a film thickness of 29 microns, and a hedgehog-like morphology in the composite particles. The coated sample demonstrated a contact angle of 64°, optimal for protein attachment and cellular uptake. Additionally, the coating exhibited strong adhesion with less than 5% damage observed in cross-cut hatch testing and appropriate surface roughness for protein attachment. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) assessed the thermal response of the materials. The coating also showed antibacterial activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Furthermore, the sample exhibited rapid bioactivity by forming a hydroxyapatite (HA) layer within 24 hours, with 35.4% degradability within 24 hours and 44.5% within 48 hours. These findings confirm that the composite film enhances the biocompatibility, bioactivity, and antibacterial properties of SS orthopedic implants in a cost-effective manner.