Abstract:
After surgeries suture-related infections and fast corrosion rate of the biodegradable materials. To
address these challenges, this study investigates the application of a bilayer coating composed of
polyacrylic acid (PAA) and chitosan on AZ31 magnesium sutures. Magnesium-based materials are
gaining attention as biodegradable alternatives to traditional non-biodegradable sutures due to their
excellent biocompatibility and mechanical properties. However, their susceptibility to rapid
corrosion in physiological environments remains a significant limitation. The proposed bilayer
coating aims to enhance the corrosion resistance of AZ31 Mg sutures while providing antibacterial
properties to mitigate infection risks. The coating was applied using a layer-by-layer deposition
technique, which ensures uniform coverage and strong adhesion of the PAA and chitosan layers.
The coated sutures were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). FTIR analysis confirmed the successful deposition of both
PAA and chitosan, with distinct functional groups indicative of enhanced corrosion resistance.
SEM images revealed smooth and defect-free surface morphology, further supporting the
effectiveness of the coating process. Antibacterial assays demonstrated the broad-spectrum
efficacy of the coated sutures, showing significant zones of inhibition against Escherichia coli (E.
coli), a common pathogen associated with surgical site infections. These findings collectively
highlight the potential of the PAA–chitosan dual-layer coating to significantly improve the
performance of AZ31 Mg sutures. By enhancing corrosion resistance and imparting antimicrobial
properties, this innovative approach offers a promising solution for applications such as intestinal
anastomosis. The study underscores the importance of developing advanced coatings for
biodegradable materials, paving the way for safer and more effective surgical sutures that can
reduce post-operative complications and improve patient outcomes.
