On the role of laser-induced microstructures in influencing the surface energy of magnesia partially stabilized zirconia bioceramic

Abstract

Surface energy must in some way be connected to surface chemistry and is therefore an important determinant of a biomaterial's functions. This work elucidates the basic phenomena and wetting mechanisms associated for a widely used bioinert ceramic, magnesia partially stabilized zirconia (MgO-PSZ) following CO2 laser treatment. Contact angles for a set of test liquids were used to measure the wettability characteristics and to reduce the surface energy of the MgO-PSZ before and after CO2 laser treatment. CO2 laser treatment of the MgO-PSZ surface was seen to effect an improvement in the material's wettability characteristics. Furthermore, it was found that the extent of wettability modification was closely related to the microstructure induced by CO2 laser radiation on the surface of the MgO-PSZ.