Study on Highly Biocompatible Porous NiTi Alloys

Abstract

Nickel Titanium alloys have shown to be an excellent choice for medical equipment such as catheters, pacemakers, and stone removal mesh. However, there are some challenges related to the shape and size modifications required to suffice the applications. The alloy needs improvements particularly in the areas of porosity for bone replacement, radiopacity, super elasticity and fatigue strength. There is a wide range of applications of biocompatible Porous NiTi alloys in the areas of inter body fusion devices, synthetic bone grafting, etc. Although it cannot be denied of the possibility of high corrosion factor of Porous NiTi alloys as compared to solid NiTinol due to greater surface area in contact with the body fluids. Such cases include definite surface preparation to cater to the need for increased biocompatibility. This paper includes the synthesis of porous NiTi alloys through the sintering process along with a check of the surface treatments and its effects on the properties related to corrosion of Porous NiTinol. The Alloys were subjected to different treatments like dry heating, boiling in water and passivation. The corrosion resistance, after and before the treatments were evaluated. It is concluded that NiTi alloys can be distinctively used for interbody fusions and can be designed into various very useful components for replacements in biomedical implants.