Electrodeposition of Different Polypyrrole Microstructures on AZ91D Magnesium Alloys. Modification of Coatings by Incorporation of Silver or Copper Particles

Abstract

In order to improve the corrosion performance of magnesium-based materials, the synthesis of biocompatible conducting polymers (PCs) is widely studied. This research presents an overview of different polypyrrole (PPy) films electrogenerated onto AZ91D Mg alloy. Sodium salicylate was employed as electrolyte for the electrosynthesis of the polymer since it demonstrated to reduce the competitive dissolution of the substrate. The polymer morphology was characterized by spherical and microtubular structures which are attractive for biomedical applications as drugs release. The corrosion protection of the substrate in simulated physiological solution was achieved. Moreover, the addition of silver and copper species confer antibacterial properties to the films.