Effect of Silver Nanoparticles on the Tribological Properties of TiO₂ Nanotubes for Biomedical

TiO 2 nanotubes were synthesized on titanium foils via anodization and subsequently decorated with silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) using the successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method for four cycles. The resulting nanostructures were characterized by SEM and XRD. The Ag-NPs appeared as uniformly distributed spherical particles anchored on the TiO 2 nanotube surface. The incorporation of Ag led to slight changes in the nanoparticle morphology and crystallinity, which enhanced the overall structural quality of the coating. The tribological performance was evaluated using a progressive load scratch test, which demonstrated improved adhesion strength and wear resistance compared with undecorated TiO 2 nanotubes. These enhancements suggest that TiO 2 nanotubes decorated with Ag-NPs through a controlled four-cycle SILAR process offer promising potential for biomedical applications, particularly in metallic implant coatings, where durability and adhesion are critical.