Physical and biological properties of the ion beam irradiated PMMA-based composite films

•First report of swift heavy ion irradiation on PMMA-HAp as bioceramic composite.•Augmented protein adsorption of about 400% was attained due to irradiation.•Tailored surface morphology, topography, roughness, wettability and crystallinity.•Irradiation transformed the hydrophobic surface into hydrophilic surface.•Better blood and cell–material interaction leading to improved biocompatibility.