Surface studies of coarse-grained and nanostructured titanium implants.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Science
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Nanostructured titanium (ns-Ti) offers improved mechanical properties for implants.
• Understanding surface characteristics is crucial for implant performance and biocompatibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the surface composition and passivation of ns-Ti after severe plastic deformation (SPD).
• To evaluate the effect of hydrofluoric acid (HF) treatment on ns-Ti and compare it with coarse-grained Ti (cg-Ti).

Main Methods:

• X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) was used to analyze core levels (Ti 2p, O 1s, C 1s, F 1s) and valence bands.
• Measurements were performed before and after HF treatment on both ns-Ti and cg-Ti.

Main Results:

• SPD did not significantly alter the intrinsic surface composition of Ti implants.
• Both ns-Ti and cg-Ti surfaces are covered by a thick titanium dioxide (TiO2) layer.
• HF treatment reduced hydrocarbon contamination and promoted a thicker TiO2 layer, enhancing passivation.

Conclusions:

• Severe plastic deformation (SPD) enhances mechanical properties and preserves corrosion stability of Ti implants.
• Acid treatment improves surface passivation and reduces contamination on nanostructured titanium (ns-Ti).
• The findings support the use of SPD-processed Ti for enhanced implant performance.