Atomic Layer Deposition Processes: Versatile Platforms for Engineering ZnO-Chitosan Biointerfaces

Research output: Contribution to journal › Research article › Contributed › peer-review

Contributors

  • Mabel Moreno - , Universidad Internacional SEK Chile, Merseburg University of Applied Sciences (Author)
  • Anjana Devi - , Chair of Materials Chemistry (gB/IFW), Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden, Ruhr University Bochum (Author)
  • David Zanders - , Ruhr University Bochum (Author)
  • Miryam Arredondo - , Queen's University Belfast (Author)
  • Davide Mariotti - , University of Strathclyde (Author)
  • Ruairi McGlynn - , Ulster University (Author)
  • Sindy Devis - , Universidad Internacional SEK Chile (Author)
  • Simón Guerrero - , Universidad de Chile (Author)
  • Eglantina Benavente - , Universidad Tecnológica Metropolitana (Author)
  • Matias Alegría - , Universidad Tecnológica Metropolitana (Author)
  • Yusser Olguin - , Universidad Técnica Federico Santa Maria (Author)
  • Lorena Lobos-Gonzalez - , Universidad de Chile (Author)
  • Kevin Guzmán - , Universidad de Chile (Author)
  • Elizabeth Rivas-Yañez - , Universidad de Atacama (Author)
  • Paula Solar - , Universidad San Sebastián (Author)
  • Valentin Cepus - , Merseburg University of Applied Sciences, Polymer Service GmbH Merseburg (Author)
  • Michael Krause - , Merseburg University of Applied Sciences (Author)
  • Luis Velásquez - , Universidad Internacional SEK Chile (Author)

Abstract

This study explores zinc-functionalized chitosan (CS) for engineering bio-multifunctional interfaces via three atomic-scale techniques: vapor phase metalation (VPM), multiple pulsed vapor phase infiltration (MPI), and O2 plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with integrated energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) elemental mapping confirmed homogeneous Zn distribution in all regimes, while AFM revealed a topographical transition from planarization in VPM (Rq = 5.6 nm) to high-surface-area nucleation in MPI (Rq = 123.9 nm). X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis demonstrated structural reconfiguration, with VPM reducing the hydrated phase crystallite size (7.4 to 4.6 nm) and MPI achieving the finest nanocrystallinity (1.83 nm). Notably, PEALD-modified interfaces exhibited the highest interfacial energy (0.102 J/m2) and enhanced swelling. Physicochemical characterization showed the functionalization method dictates semiconductor properties, while biological assays revealed C2C12 cell proliferation comparable to the control, along with tailored antiseptic activity against E. coli and H. pylori. Significantly, in vivo subcutaneous implantation revealed that CS-ZnO PEALD scaffolds act as immunomodulatory interfaces, promoting active angiogenesis and a balanced immune response with stable anti-inflammatory IL-10 levels and near-basal pro-inflammatory expression (IL-6 = 0.5 pg/mL). These findings highlight the versatility of ALD-based processes for next-generation intelligent medical implants and bio-integrated electronics.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere71329
JournalAdvanced healthcare materials
Volume15
Issue number26
Publication statusPublished - 10 Jul 2026
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

PubMed 42310481

Keywords

Keywords

  • ALD techniques, angiogenesis, antiseptic ZnO coatings, biocompatibility, chitosan, in vivo integration