Research Project 13

•  Host institution: UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI TORINO (UNITO),
• Research group website: Chemistry Department
• Supervisor: Prof. Paola Rizzi, paola.rizzi@unito.it
• More contact: 
  Prof. Francesco Turci, francesco.turci@unito.it
  Dr. Cristina Pavan, cristina.pavan@unito.it
• DC 13: NN

Project Description

Short Description: DC13 will develop novel Ti-based amorphous and β-Ti alloys with non-toxic compositions, tailored mechanical properties, and nanoscale surface patterns to prevent biofilm formation. The project includes alloy synthesis, surface treatments for bacterial inhibition, and comprehensive in vitro testing of mechanical, corrosion, antimicrobial, and biocompatibility properties to improve implant safety and performance. 

More about this positionen in EURAXESS

Objectives

Commercial Ti-based alloys present challenges such as high elastic modulus and potential toxicity from released elements. To address these, novel aspects will be explored: (i) development of Ti-based amorphous and β-Ti alloys with non-toxic compositions and enhanced biocompatibility; (ii) alloys with tuneable Young’s modulus for improved mechanical biofunctionality; (iii) advanced processing techniques for personalised implant shapes; (iv) development of nanoscale topographical patterns, through dealloying and anodisation, to prevent biofilm formation. In detail, DC13 will (1) Develop Ti–Cu–Zr–Pd and Ti–Zr–Ta–Si amorphous alloys with high glass forming ability and non-toxic compositions; (2) Apply physicochemical surface treatments to create nanoscale patterns that inhibit bacterial adhesion; (3) Assess the mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility of the alloys; (4) Evaluate in vitro antimicrobial properties of the materials, in-chemico antimicrobial activity (reactive oxygen species, Fenton chemistry, free- and surface radicals, peroxidation of biomolecules), and biocompatibility using cellular membrane models including blood.

Expected Results

This PhD project aims to enhance the knowledge on the biocompatible Ti based alloys composition and synthesis with advanced techniques and measure their properties. An in-depth study of the mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility of the alloys will be addressed. Moreover, the surface patterning will be considered and novel processes for antibacterial properties enhancement will be applied to the advanced biocompatible Ti based alloys previously produced. In vitro antimicrobial properties of the materials, in-chemico antimicrobial activity, and biocompatibility using cellular membrane models including blood will be assessed. 

Research activities include:

• Developing advanced Ti based amorphous and crystalline alloys
• Evaluate the properties of the Ti based alloys with different experimental techniques
• Design surfaces with enhanced antibacterial properties
• Evaluate the cytocompatibility and the antibacterial activity of the produced alloys and surfaces.

Training and mobility:

• Research secondments at SHIELD partner institutions:
  • Anthogyr SAS
  • Universitat Autonoma De Barcelona
  • Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1

More information about the Doctoral positions at this EURAXESS's link