Original Article

Effect of protein adsorption on corrosion and biocompatibility, and antibacterial activity of 3D-printing titanium alloys

College of Ecological Environment and Urban Construction, Fujian University of Technology, Fuzhou 350118, PR China

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Received: 8 July 2025
Accepted: 14 November 2025

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the effects of protein adsorption on the surface properties, corrosion behavior for the first time, cell adhesion, and antibacterial performance of 3D-printed copper-containing titanium alloys. The results show that protein adsorption significantly alters the chemical properties and electrochemical behavior of the titanium alloy surface. Electrochemical tests reveal that the formation of a protein adsorption layer lowers the alloy’s corrosion potential and increases the corrosion current density, thereby promoting the release of metal ions. Moreover, protein adsorption enhances the cell adhesion and proliferation on the surface. Antibacterial performance tests show that the formation of a protein adsorption layer strengthens the antibacterial performance of titanium alloys, likely due to the increased hydrophilicity of the surface, which facilitates the adsorption and release of antibacterial agents. The study provides important theoretical evidence for the application of titanium alloys in the biomedical field.