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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
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Potentiodynamic Corrosion Testing
Published on: September 4, 2016
Surface engineering: a low wearing solution for metal-on-metal hip surface replacements.
Ian J Leslie1, Sophie Williams, Chris Brown
1Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom. I.J.Leslie@leeds.ac.uk
Summary
Chromium nitride (CrN) coatings significantly reduce wear and metal ion release in hip replacements compared to metal-on-metal designs. This surface engineering approach lowers risks associated with cobalt and chromium debris in patients.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Tribology
Background:
- Metal-on-metal (MoM) hip replacements raise concerns regarding cobalt (Co) and chromium (Cr) ion release and wear particle dissemination.
- Surface engineering offers a potential solution by applying ceramic bearing surfaces onto metal substrates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the wear, ion levels, and wear particles of thick chromium nitride (CrN) coated surface replacements.
- To compare CrN-coated bearings against contemporary MoM surface replacements in a hip simulator study.
Main Methods:
- A 10 million cycle hip simulator study was conducted.
- Ion levels were quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy.
- Wear particles were analyzed via field emission gun scanning electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- CrN-coated bearings exhibited 80% less wear compared to MoM controls.
- Cr and Co ion levels were substantially lower in CrN bearings (73% and 98% reduction, respectively).
- Wear particles were predominantly nanometer-sized with round to oval morphology.
Conclusions:
- CrN coatings effectively reduce wear and ion release in hip surface replacements.
- This surface engineering strategy may mitigate patient risks associated with MoM prostheses.
