Synthesis of porous Ce-doped titania coating containing CaTiO3 by MAO and its apatite inducing ability

Bioactive porous CaTiO3-contained titania coatings doped with cerium were prepared on CP-Ti surfaces by micro arc oxidation (MAO) process. The surface morphologies, chemical composition, wettability and the phase compositions of coatings were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersion X-ray spectrometry (EDS), contact angle goniometer and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. The results showed the surface phase compositions of the as-synthesized coatings are anatase, rutile TiO2 and perovskite CaTiO3 phases, as well as a few amorphous phases. The participation of Ce in the electrolyte during MAO is evidenced to benefit in crystallizing CaTiO3 phase and enhancing the coating surface hydrophilicity. The results of simulated body fluid (SBF) immersion experiments indicate that the hydrolysis of CaTiO3 during immersion could enhance the nucleation and growth of apatite. In comparison, the porous Ce-doped titania coating containing CaTiO3 exhibits better bioactivity as more apatites were observed at the same immersion duration. •Porous Ce-doped titania coatings containing CaTiO3 are fabricated by one-step MAO process.•The existence of CaTiO3 leads to good nucleation and growth of apatite.•Doping Ce benefits in forming apatite.