Comparison of Stress Corrosion Cracking and Corrosion Fatigue (Anodized and Non-Anodized Grade 4 CP Ti)

Abstract

Abstract In light of the possible effects of anodization on stress corrosion cracking (SCC) and corrosion fatigue (CF) of CP titanium, a research project has been completed recently in our laboratories to evaluate and compare SCC and CF of anodized versus non-anodized samples from a single lot of Grade 4 CPTi. Initial evaluation of alloy composition, microstructure, Vickers microhardness, and mechanical properties including the tensile and yield strength, % elongation and reduction of area was performed. After these tests ensured the material met the standards of ASTM Standard Specification for Unalloyed Titanium for Surgical Implant Applications (F 67), samples were prepared using low stress grinding techniques. Samples were divided into two groups, and the non-anodized SCC and CF testing was initiated. The surface of the second group of samples was anodized by Synthes to provide a green/gold surface consistent with standard production processing and then tested using the identical methodology as used for the non-anodized samples. Results of the slow strain rate SCC testing on both smooth and notched anodized and non-anodized samples in both distilled de-ionized water and Ringers solution at 37°C showed no effect of anodization. Results of corrosion fatigue testing indicated that, while there was no effect of anodization on corrosion fatigue, there was a significant effect of the notch on the fatigue characteristics regardless of the two different surface conditions.