Deposition Characteristics of TiO₂ Thin Films Prepared by DC Pulsed Magnetron Sputtering

Abstract

This study reports a fabrication of $TiO_2$ on the surface of dental implants by pulsed d.c. magnetron sputtering from a Ti target. A systematic investigation on the microstructure and mechanical properties of $TiO_2$ films was carried out with the variation of $O_2$ contents and substrate temperatures. The effects of deposition parameters on the fabricated structures were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique and field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM). Hydrophilic properties were evaluated by measuring water contact angles on the film surface. With increasing $O_2$ contents up to 40%, surface roughness of $TiO_2$ film increased while relatively smooth surface was obtained with 50% $O_2$ contents. Surface roughness and adhesion strength both increased as substrate temperature increased up to $200^{\circ}C$. From these results, hydrophilic and adhesive properties of the present $TiO_2$ films synthesized with 40% $O_2$ at $200^{\circ}C$ are regarded to be suitable for bio-compatible applications.