Laser surface nitriding of NiTi shape memory alloy for biomedical applications

Abstract

The release of Nickel ions into the human body from NiTi implants is a concern for its long term biomedical applications. This paper will investigate the release rate of Nickel ions in Hanks solution after the NiTi shape memory alloy has been laser surface melted in a nitrogen rich environment. The laser surface nitriding process as well as the rapid quenching effect have altered the chemistry and microstructure of the NiTi surface. The change in microstructure as well as the corrosion resistance of the laser surface nitrided samples will also be reported.The release of Nickel ions into the human body from NiTi implants is a concern for its long term biomedical applications. This paper will investigate the release rate of Nickel ions in Hanks solution after the NiTi shape memory alloy has been laser surface melted in a nitrogen rich environment. The laser surface nitriding process as well as the rapid quenching effect have altered the chemistry and microstructure of the NiTi surface. The change in microstructure as well as the corrosion resistance of the laser surface nitrided samples will also be reported.