Abstract: Objective To evaluate the structural characteristics and biocompatibility of a novel nano-Ta-Ti alloy rod for its
potential application in internal fixation. Methods Ta coating of a Ti alloy rod with nano-Ta (tantalum) powder was performed
using laser melting with symmetrical grooves repleted with nano-Ta powder along the whole length. The microstructure of the
cross section of Ta-Ti alloy rod, pore diameter and components of the coating were analyzed using scanning electron
microscopy. The influence of this nano-Ta-Ti alloy on proliferation and differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells was evaluated by
MTT cytotoxicity test and ALP activity test. Results Under scanning electron microscope, the Ta-coating surface presented
with a gross porous (200-300 μm) structure with dense fusion between the Ta particles, and no new element was produced
after the melting. Biocompatibility evaluation showed that Ti alloys with and without Ta coating both promoted the
proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells, but the coated alloy showed better performance and obviously promoted the differentiation of
the osteoblasts. Conclusion Alloying between Ta and Ti can be accomplished successfully by laser melting technique, and the
alloy obtained has ideal surface structure and good biocompatibility.