Alkaline and acidic anodization of titanium implants using electrochemistry

Abstract

Recent advancements in the medical field has lead to the prolongation of life expectancy and an increase in the elderly population. Consequently, the deterioration of bone health and a shift towards carbohydrate-based dietary habits has lead to an increase in tooth loss and thus to an increase in the use of titanium implants. Titanium and alloys due to their inherent properties such as biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, lower elastic modulus and high strength are preferred in the manufacture of orthopedic and dental implants. There are studies conducted on the further improvement of its medical properties through the development of new manufacturing methods. In this study, improvement of the biocompatibility of Titanium implants by surface etching, functionalization and hydroxyapatite coating has been investigated. Titanium implants been have electrochemically acid-etched using sulphuric and hydrochloric acid, anodized in potassium oxide solution and hydroxyapatite coated in SBF at room temperature.