With around 227,000 procedures, total hip replacements (THR) account for the largest proportion of joint endoprostheses implanted in Germany each year. The main reason for THR revision is wear particle-induced implant loosening. A main objective in the development of hip endoprostheses is therefore to improve friction properties and reduce wear. The native joint equipped with hyaline cartilage, a type of cartilage tissue found primarily in articulating joint surfaces, has excellent friction and wear properties. These properties are based on water-mediated lubrication of the sliding surface. Inspired by this natural principle of friction minimisation in articular cartilage, the aim of the SELF-X-FOR-IMPLANTS project is to explore a platform technology that enables the creation of 'tailor-made' multilayer systems for implantology. The implants, functionalised by various self-assembly mechanisms, are expected to interact with biological tissues with a level of performance and self-healing potential that is not yet technologically achievable. The primary applications addressed are a friction-minimising functional layer on joint endoprostheses as well as an antithrombogenic layer system for implants in contact with blood (here: peripheral vascular stents) and layer systems with defined drug release for infection prophylaxis, for example in patients with acute vascular occlusion.

Within the project, initial combinations of polycation and polyanion PEM layers and their bonding to ceramic substrates are tested. Furthermore, different coating processes are experimentally tested and the samples characterised. In addition to the functionalisation of the ceramic surface, ultrashort pulse laser structuring is developed. The influence of laser processing on the mechanical properties of the ceramic and the characterisation of the structuring are shown. Screening tests to characterise the functionalised and structured planar samples as well as uncoated references using a pin-on-disc tribometer are done.