New insights of Nb2O5-based coatings on the 316L SS surfaces: enhanced biological responses

Laser-Induced Slippery Liquid-Infused Surfaces with Anticorrosion and Wear Resistance Properties on Aluminum Alloy Substrates

Slippery liquid-infused surfaces (SLISs) are developed as a potential alternative to superhydrophobic surfaces (SHSs) to resolve the issues of poor durability in corrosion protection and wear resistance. In this work, we used a simple laser processing technology to prepare a SLIS on the aluminum alloy (7075) surface. The superhydrophobicities of the modified surface and the oil film formed by liquid injection make the corrosive medium difficult to directly contact the surface and thus have a significant effect on corrosion resistance. The water and oil repellent SLIS exhibits durable corrosion resistance and excellent tribological properties compared with the SHS. The anticorrosion and wear resistance performances provided by the composite film have been assessed by multiple methods including the electrochemical test, immersion test, and friction wear test. The results indicate that compared to the bare surface, laser-ablated surface (LAS), and fluoroalkyl silane-modified SHS, the SLIS composite coating has better corrosion resistance and wear resistance, which is of great significance to expand the potential applications of 7075 aluminum alloys. The work provides a research basis for expanding the practical application of SLISs in complex environments.

Progress in Niobium Oxide-Containing Coatings for Biomedical Applications: A Critical Review

Typically, pure niobium oxide coatings are deposited on metallic substrates, such as commercially pure Ti, Ti6Al4 V alloys, stainless steels, niobium, TiNb alloy, and Mg alloys using techniques such as sputter deposition, sol-gel deposition, anodizing, and wet plasma electrolytic oxidation. The relative advantages and limitations of these coating techniques are considered, with particular emphasis on biomedical applications. The properties of a wide range of pure and modified niobium oxide coatings are illustrated, including their thickness, morphology, microstructure, elemental composition, phase composition, surface roughness and hardness. The corrosion resistance, tribological characteristics and cell viability/proliferation of the coatings are illustrated using data from electrochemical, wear resistance and biological cell culture measurements. Critical R&D needs for the development of improved future niobium oxide coatings, in the laboratory and in practice, are highlighted.