Dr. Salwa El Baakili

Visiting researcher

Euromed University of Fez, (https://ueuromed.org/en ) Morocco, TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Program)

Development and characterisation of organic-inorganic bioactive coatings on 3D structures by electrophoretic deposition

Supervisor: Prof. Aldo R. Boccaccini

The ongoing project is in the field of Biomaterials and Nanocomposite Materials, and it is conducted within the framework of the TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visits Program (LINK: https://twas.org/opportunity/twas-dfg-cooperation-visits-programme-ssa). The research project develops bioactive glass / biopolymer composite coatings for 3D-printed (SLM) cobalt-chrome metallic implants, applied via electrophoretic deposition (EPD). Metallic implants often lack surface bioactivity, limiting bone integration, stability, and corrosion resistance. The research will formulate biopolymer-bioactive glass suspensions, deposit them onto porous and dense SLM-fabricated structures, and characterize coating morphology, adhesion, and uniformity. In vitro bioactivity and corrosion resistance will be evaluated in simulated body fluid. The collaboration combines expertise in additive manufacturing, surface engineering, and bioactive composites to advance next-generation bone-regenerative implants.