Surface modification technologies and biological response properties of bioactive coatings on carbon/carbon composites

Carbon/carbon composites preserved the inherent excellent biocompatibility of carbon. Their mechanical properties can be tailored to be similar to those of bone. Carbon/carbon composites were considered to be promising materials for orthopedic surgery and dental surgery. However, it had no bio-activity and fails to form chemical bond with host bone. Bioactive coatings on carbon/carbon composites substrate can improve its bioactivity and reduce occurrence of carbon debris. The coating technologies and biological properties of bioactive layers on carbon/carbon composites were reviewed. The current research situations and problems concerning carbon/carbon composites in artificial bones were discussed. The means to solve these problems and the prospects of carbon/carbon composites in artificial bones were predicted. It was believed that surface modification in implantation of carbon/carbon composites should promote its application in artificial bones.