Influence of sulfide concentration on the corrosion behavior of titanium in a simulated oral environment

Abstract

This study assessed the corrosion behavior of titanium in response to sulfide by determining the effects of sulfide concentration and pH over immersion period. Corrosion was evaluated through changes in color, glossiness, surface characterization, and titanium release. Sulfide solutions were prepared in 3 different concentrations with Na2S, each in pH unadjusted (sulfide-alkaline) and pH adjusted to 7.5 (sulfide-neutral). Titanium discoloration increased and glossiness decreased as sulfide concentration and immersion period increased in sulfide-alkaline solutions. Coral-like complexes were observed on the surface of these specimens, which became more pronounced as concentration increased. Small amounts of titanium release were detected in sulfide-alkaline solutions; however, this was not affected by immersion periods. Corrosion was indicated through considerable surface oxidation suggesting the formation of a thick oxide layer. No significant changes in color and glossiness, or titanium release were indicated for titanium specimens immersed in sulfide-neutral solutions indicating that pH had a significant effect on corrosion. Our findings suggest that a thick oxide layer on the titanium surface was formed in sulfide-alkaline solutions due to excessive oxidation.