Time-dependent growth of TiO₂ nanotubes from a magnetron sputtered Ti thin film

The purpose of this study was to apply a Ti film to various substrates for use in biomaterials. By forming TiO₂ nanotubes on a film, the biocompatibility of the TiO₂ nanotube and its ability as a carrier can be applied to a variety of materials for use within diverse applications. In this work, we present the fabrication of a self-organized TiO₂ nanotube layer that was grown from flat and thin sputter-deposited titanium films on a Si (100) substrate by plasma electrolytic oxidation, and evaluated the use of this material for the release of gentamicin. This resulted in TiO₂ nanotubes with lengths ranging from about 200 to 400 nm, as confirmed in a cross-sectional view. Operation at a low temperature was a key to achieving self-organized, time-dependent growth of the TiO₂ nanotube layer from the thin film on a Si substrate. The drugs were then pipetted on the formed nanotubes and their release was evaluated. The results showed that there was adequate drug release from the samples which suggests that they have the potential to be a drug carrier.