In this study, the correlation between surface properties, including the carbon-bonding state for ion-beam irradiated
poly(L-lactic acid) films, and cell attachment capabilities was investigated. H+, N2
+, or Kr+ beams
were used to irradiate the film-surface at an energy of 50 keV with fluences ranging from 1×1013 to
1×1015 ions/cm2. Chemical compositions, carbon structure, and wettability of the irradiated surfaces were
evaluated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, and contact angle measurement
of water. Carbonization proceeded with ion mass and/or irradiation fluence, and subsequently the irradiated
surfaces became hydrophobic compared to the non-irradiated surface. Mouse fibroblasts (L929) were seeded
onto the non-irradiated and irradiated surfaces to evaluate cell attachment capabilities. These results indicate
that a moderate amount of C_C groups is suitable for cell attachment and proliferation, and that an excess is
inhibitory.