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Dense alumina aged in vivo
Journal of Biomedical Materials Research
|March 1, 1981
Summary
Calcium concentration on alumina surfaces changes over time during in vivo exposure, initially decreasing then increasing. This correlates with a steady decline in the material's flexural strength.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Surface Chemistry
- Materials Engineering
Background:
- Dense alumina is a widely used biomaterial.
- Understanding surface changes is crucial for predicting implant performance.
- In vivo degradation can affect the mechanical properties of biomaterials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the calcium (Ca) impurity concentration on alumina surfaces after in vivo exposure.
- To correlate surface Ca concentration with changes in flexural strength over time.
Main Methods:
- Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) was employed to analyze surface composition.
- Samples were exposed in vivo for 6, 12, and 23 weeks.
- Flexural strength testing was performed on the exposed samples.
Main Results:
- Surface Ca concentration initially decreased, reaching a minimum at 12 weeks, and then increased.
- Flexural strength exhibited a near-linear decrease from 6 to 23 weeks.
- A correlation between surface Ca dynamics and mechanical degradation was observed.
Conclusions:
- In vivo exposure alters the surface chemistry of dense alumina.
- The observed changes in Ca concentration are linked to the degradation of mechanical properties.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms driving these changes.