Validation of three-dimensional surface characterising methods: scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Surface Engineering
• Dental Implantology

Background:

• Enosseous titanium implant surface characteristics critically affect osseointegration quality.
• Metrical analysis of implant surfaces requires topographical descriptions for comprehensive understanding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To correlate Ra (average roughness) values obtained by tactile and optical profilometry with those from stereo scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).
• To evaluate the suitability of SEM and CLSM for assessing surface roughness of diamond-coated titanium alloys.

Main Methods:

• Standardized CVD diamond-coated titanium alloys (2,000-3,000 W microwave power) and a non-coated reference specimen were used.
• Surface roughness (Ra values) was measured using tactile profilometry, optical profilometry, SEM, and CLSM.
• Statistical analysis (p = 0.001) was performed to compare results from different methods.

Main Results:

• Ra values varied significantly depending on the measurement method used for the same sample.
• Increasing CVD coating power from 2,000 W to 3,000 W significantly increased surface roughness amplitude (Ra) from 4.33-5.69 µm to 4.53-6.89 µm.
• SEM and CLSM provided valid surface roughness data with accompanying topographical imaging, unlike established methods.

Conclusions:

• The choice of method significantly impacts surface roughness (Ra) measurements for titanium implants.
• SEM and CLSM are recommended for accurate topographical assessment of implant surfaces.
• Future studies must specify the measurement method to ensure correct interpretation of roughness values.