Fabrication and Characterization of PEEK/AgNP Composite Coatings on 316L Stainless Steel for Biomedical Implants

Coating of medical implants plays a vital role in improving biocompatibility, corrosion resistance and antibacterial properties. This research discusses the synthesis and evaluation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) reinforced polyether ether ketone (PEEK) composite coatings on 316L stainless steel. The composite coatings were designed with a precise coating process to achieve homogeneous AgNP distribution in the PEEK matrix. The coatings were characterized for their structure, morphology and composition by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). These analyses confirmed the formation of a uniform coating with dispersed AgNPs and good bonding between the coating and substrate. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed crystalline silver phases, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence of functional groups of PEEK and AgNP bonding. AgNP addition led to a reduction in surface roughness and increased antibacterial properties against typical pathogens. Moreover, corrosion studies showed enhanced properties of PEEK/AgNP-coated samples over bare substrates. The composite coatings also demonstrated enhanced mechanical properties and wear resistance, making them ideal for long-term implant use. In summary, the PEEK/AgNP composite coatings hold the potential to provide an effective solution for multifunctional surface modification of stainless-steel implants, with enhanced mechanical stability, chemical resistance and antibacterial properties for next-generation biomedical implants.