Anodization: A Promising Nano-Modification Technique of Titanium-based Implants for Orthopedic Applications

Abstract

As one of the valve metals (including Ti, Al, Ta, Nb, V, Hf, W), titanium is protected by a thin titanium oxide layer which spontaneously forms on its surface when exposed to air or other oxygen containing environments. This oxide passive layer is typically 2 to 5 nm thick and is responsible for the well-documented corrosion resistance property of titanium and its alloys. Because of this and their excellent mechanical properties, titanium and its alloys are widely used in orthopedic and dental applications.