Abstract
A new low-modulus β Ti-Mb alloy with low elastic modulus and excellent corrosion resistance is currently under consideration as a surgical implant material. The usefulness of such materials can be dramatically enhanced if their surface structure and surface chemistry can be controlled. This control is achieved in two stages. Electropolishing and anodic oxidation of the Ti45Nb alloy provide a surface with a uniform oxide layer that is a mixture of TiO 2 and Nb2O5. The impact of each of these two steps on the morphology of the surface and on the thickness and chemistry of the oxide layer has been assessed. In addition, as a first step toward controlling the surface chemistry of this material, a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) based on hexadecylphosphonic acid (HDPA) is attached to the anodized surface. The SAM is characterized based on its wetting properties and by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. Using variable angle XPS analysis, detailed information is obtained about the orientation and structure of the SAM, its thickness, and the chemistry of its interaction with the metal oxide surface of the alloy. Further support for the creation of a true monolayer film is obtained from FTIR measurements on a model oxide surface analogous to that of the alloy. This is the first report of SAM attachment to this alloy and opens the possibility of monolayer control of its biocompatibility.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 4218-4226 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Chemistry of Materials |
Volume | 17 |
Issue number | 16 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 9 Aug 2005 |