Narrow pH response multilayer films with controlled release of ibuprofen on magnesium alloy

Abstract An intelligent narrow pH-triggered multilayer film was prepared on magnesium alloys, aiming to solve the implant infections during the implantation period and improve the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloys. The encapsulation of ibuprofen by chitosan (IBU@CS) makes the release of IBU sensitive to narrow pH (pH 6.8–7.4). Positive charged IBU@CS was assembled with heparin (Hep) to fabricate (Hep/IBU@CS)10 film on AZ31 alloys using layer-by-layer method. The microstructure, composition and anticorrosion properties of the film were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and electrochemical experiments. Cellular activity was studied by MTT cell viability assay. The results showed that the Hep/IBU@CS multilayer films improved the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloys. The in vitro test demonstrated that the release of IBU in the film presented narrow pH sensitivity. The films showed no obvious signs of cytotoxicity conformed by the MTT assay and presented antibacterial properties. These preliminary results demonstrate the potential use of the Hep/IBU@CS multilayer films on magnesium-based implants.