Nafion/ZrO₂ Modified NiTi Orthodontic Wire: Preparation, Material Characterization, and Corrosion Studies

Title:Nafion/ZrO₂ Modified NiTi Orthodontic Wire: Preparation, Material Characterization, and Corrosion Studies

Volume: 16 Issue: 3

Author(s): Raja Rajamanikkam San Chitta Raj, Keerthana Madhivanan, Dhanraj Ganapathy and Ashok K. Sundramoorthy*

Affiliation:

• Centre for Nano-Biosensors, Department of Prosthodontics and Materials Science, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, 600077, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract:

Background: Nickel-titanium (NiTi) orthodontic wires are widely used in dental corrective procedures due to their high mechanical properties and cost-effectiveness. However, they are prone to oral corrosion, leading to mechanical deterioration, aesthetic issues, and potential health concerns.

Objective: This study aims to improve the corrosion resistance and durability of NiTi orthodontic wires by employing zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂) and Nafion coating with the goal of enhancing wire performance.

Methods: Two types of NiTi wires were evaluated: a standard, unmodified wire as a control and another wire treated with electrodeposited ZrO₂ film and Nafion (Naf) coating. Surface analysis was conducted using various techniques, including Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) analysis.

Results: The uncoated NiTi wire exhibited a corrosion rate of 4.436× 10^-1 mm/year, whereas the NAF/ZrO₂-coated NiTi wire showed a corrosion rate of 4.068× 10^-1 mm/year, indicating that the NAF/ZrO₂ coating acted as a protective layer. Additionally, the ZrO₂ layer provided poor electrical conductivity, resulting in slightly higher impedance compared to bare NiTi. The coating served as a barrier, which significantly enhanced corrosion resistance and improved the wire lifespan.

Conclusion: Electro-modification through ZrO₂ deposition and Nafion coating significantly improved the corrosion resistance and overall durability of NiTi orthodontic wires, offering a promising advancement for their use in dental orthodontics. This study underscores the potential of ZrO₂ and Nafion coating to enhance the corrosion resistance and longevity of NiTi orthodontic wires.

Cite this article as:

Chitta Raj Rajamanikkam San Raja, Madhivanan Keerthana, Ganapathy Dhanraj and Sundramoorthy K. Ashok*, Nafion/ZrO₂ Modified NiTi Orthodontic Wire: Preparation, Material Characterization, and Corrosion Studies, Micro and Nanosystems 2024; 16 (3) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/0118764029310829240610110634