Biocompatible DLC coatings by PBII: Effects of doping and surface roughness

Due to its excellent mechanical and bio‐inert characteristics, diamond‐like carbon (DLC, a‐C:H) has been established as a favored coating material especially for loadbearing implants. The addition of dopants into the DLC matrix opens further possibilities to tune the layer properties to the body environment. We present results on the effects of various dopants (N, Si, halogenes), surface roughness and surface activation treatment on the surface energy and cellular adhesion. Sample coatings were prepared on TiAlV substrates by PBII and simultaneous condensation of hydrocarbons and the respective dopant precursor gases. The layers' composition was assessed by ion beam analysis (RBS, ERDA). The investigations indicate a wide range of accessible DLC characteristics by PBII and thus the feasibility of optimized wear‐resistant coatings by this method. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)