Electrochemical Synthesis of Nanostructured Oxide Layers on Threaded Surfaces of Medical Implants

Self organized nanostructured oxide layers were developed on threaded surfaces of medical implants made of Ti6Al4V alloy. The synthesis was done by electrochemical anodization in phosphate/fluoride based electrolyte. By anodization in an aqueous solution of 9.34 wt.% H3PO4 and 0.4 wt.% HF the threaded surfaces were covered by continuous, self ordered nanoporous oxide layers. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to evaluate the morphology of the nanostructured layers. The diameters of the nanopores depends on anodization potential, by using U = 24 V the openings had an average diameter of 40 nm, while using U = 30V the average nanopores diameter was of 63 nm. The current density was similar to 10 A/m(2) in the steady state of potentiodynamic stage of anodization, and below 45 A/m(2) in potentiostatic stage.