Chapter 20 - Biomedical application of anodic nanomaterials

Abstract

One of the most widely used and studied materials for biomedical devices is titanium and titanium alloys. However, for clinical use, numerous factors should be considered such as the alloy composition, processing methods, and the formation of a suitable surface treatment to achieve a high grade of biocompatibility. In this scenario, the formation of titanium oxide nanotubes on biomedical titanium alloys has been targeted as a promising surface treatment from a biomedical perspective. However, titanium oxide nanotubes are currently facing numerous challenges to be a feasible option for different biomedical devices. In recent years anodizing, as an inexpensive and scalable production method for nanotubular anodic titanium oxides, has attracted the attention of researchers. This chapter discusses the different methods to form titanium oxide nanotubes, their morphological features, main biomedical properties, as well as their remaining challenges and advantages.