Fabrication of PVTF Electroactive Coatings on PEEK Implant to Provide Surface Potential for Enhancing Osteogenesis

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) has gained significant attention in biomedical applications due to its excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. In this work, the fabrication of electroactive poly(vinylidenefluoride-co-trifluoroethylene) (PVTF) coatings on PEEK surfaces to enhance osteogenesis is explored. PEEK substrates were prepared with different surface treatments to optimize adhesion, followed by PVTF coating through drop-casting and polarization. Morphological, chemical, and thermal characterizations revealed uniform β-phase crystallization in the PVTF layer, achieving a peak piezoelectric coefficient (d33) of 16 pC/N under a 4 kV polarization voltage. Cell culture experiments demonstrated improved biocompatibility, with polarized surfaces showing enhanced bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation. ALP activity, a key marker of osteogenesis, was significantly higher on polarized samples. Furthermore, the modified surfaces exhibited strong adhesion between PVTF and PEEK, as well as sustained surface potential in physiological conditions. These test results indicate that the PEEK/PVTF composite, with its enhanced electroactive properties and biocompatibility, shows great potential as an electroactive material for biomedical implants.