Characterisation and corrosion properties of novel hydroxyapatite niobium plasma sprayed coating

Abstract A novel hydroxyapatite niobium (HA–Nb) composite coating was deposited on 316L SS substrate to improve the corrosion properties and functional compatibility of 316L SS alloy. HA–Nb coatings were applied by air plasma spray under electrical current intensities of 400, 600 and 800 A. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques were utilised to investigate the characteristics of coatings. Corrosion properties were evaluated by electrochemical polarisation test in Ringer solution. Results indicated that optimum electrical current intensity for deposition of the HA–Nb composite coating on 316L SS substrate was 600 A. The composite coating improved corrosion resistance and exhibited good structural properties which in turn increased biocompatibility of 316L SS substrate.