Assessing the Biocompatibility of Borided AISI 316L Steel with hFOB 1.19 and THP-1 Cell Lines
摘要
This study presents, for the first time, the cytotoxicity assessment of borided AISI 316L stainless steel, treated via a novel pulsed-DC powder-pack boriding (PDCPB) process, when in contact with human fetal osteoblast (hFOB 1.19) and macrophage (THP-1) cell lines. The FeB–Fe2B bilayer on the steel surface was evaluated through both direct and indirect contact cytotoxicity tests in accordance with ISO 10993-5 standard, over exposure times of 24 h and 72 h. The results revealed high cell viability (~ 90%) in all cases, indicating that the boride layer is non-cytotoxic. Notably, hFOB 1.19 cells showed strong affinity and adhesion to the borided surfaces, with well-defined morphologies and dimensions ranging from 75 to 165 µm (longitudinal) and 51–65 µm (transversal). This confirms that the boride layer supports osteoblastic cell attachment and spreading. PDCPB-treated AISI 316L steel holds great promise as a biocompatible surface for orthopedic and implant applications, combining mechanical enhancement with biological safety.