Characterization of Titanium Surfaces

Abstract

Bulk properties of biomaterials such as non-toxicity of their constituents to cells, corrosion resistance or controlled degradability, modulus of elasticity or fatigue strength have been recognized for quite some time to be highly relevant in terms of selecting a biomaterial for a specific biomedical application. Many of the biomaterials commercially used today have a successful record of performance in a variety of applications. Titanium, used in applications as diverse as artificial joint replacement, maxillofacial reconstruction or audiological applications, is a good example. Success has been related to the development of titanium qualities that show a combination of favorable properties in terms of adequate mechanical strength, sufficient formability, excellent corrosion resistance and passivity in biological environments, and cost-effectiveness in the production of complex implant shapes (see Chaps. 2, 3, 6 and part V of this book). Bulk properties are well controlled in modern commercial fabrication of devices and despite the fact that there is a continuing search for and interest in new alloys that improve particular properties, it is generally accepted that the currently used titanium qualities do meet the requirements for safe, long-term performance in the majority of applications. Since the techniques to measure and control bulk properties such as hardness, fatigue strength or corrosion resistance are also well established and generally not specific to the materials discussed in this book, there is no direct need for a special chapter on bulk property characterization.