Complex Bioactive Chitosan–Bioglass Coatings on a New Advanced TiTaZrAg Medium–High-Entropy Alloy

Abstract

High-entropy alloys (HEAs), also known as multicomponent or multi-principal element alloys (MPEAs), differ from traditional alloys, which are usually based only on one principal element, in that they are usually fabricated from five or more elements in large percentages related to each other, in the range of 5%–35%. Despite the usually outstanding characteristics of HEAs, based on a properly selected design, many such alloys are coated with advanced composites after their elaboration to further improve their qualities. In this study, 73Ti-20Zr-5Ta-2Ag samples were covered with chitosan and a mixture of chitosan, bioglass, and ZnO particles to improve the materials’ antibacterial properties. A variety of methods, including scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and mechanical and electrochemical determinations, has permitted a quantified comparison between the coated and uncoated surfaces of this medium–high-entropy alloy. The materials’ properties were enhanced by the complex coating, giving the alloys not only high antibacterial activity, but also good corrosion protection.

A Modern Approach to HEAs: From Structure to Properties and Potential Applications

“…Traditional methods like severe plastic deformation (via cold rolling or equal channel angular pressing) enhance strength at the cost of ductility, suggesting the possibility of developing superfunctional materials that surpass traditional engineering materials in performance [16]. This advancement points towards a future where HEAs could play a critical role in various high-efficiency, advanced material applications, demonstrating the field's growing maturity and potential for innovation [8,17,18].…”

In-Depth Characterization of Two Bioactive Coatings Obtained Using MAPLE on TiTaZrAg

“…The samples were in-depth characterized through a varied choice of methods to provide a more complete picture of the two types of bioactive coating. Starting from a previous study [ 1 ], new coatings based on chitosan and bioglass were developed in which ZnO or GO were incorporated. The electrochemical, physical, and mechanical properties were determined, and the results were used to observe the effect of adding ZnO or GO in the chitosan and bioglass matrix.…”

“…TiZrTaAg and other Ti-based alloys are remarkable materials with exceptional properties, making them noteworthy candidates for use in medical applications [1] and various industrial fields like the general automotive industry or energy production [2,3]. The metals used for the fabrication of this alloy possess high strength and low density, making the TiZrTaAg alloy an ideal choice for structural applications [4].…”