Recent advances in electrochemically surface treated titanium and its alloys for biomedical applications: A review of anodic and plasma electrolytic oxidation methods

Nowadays, titanium and its alloys are widely used materials in implantology. Nevertheless, the greatest challenge is still its appropriate surface treatment in order to induce optimal properties, which facilitates formation of a permanent bond between the implant and human tissue. The use of electrochemical treatment such as anodic oxidation or plasma electrolytic oxidation allows for the production of porous coating that mimics the bone structure and accelerates the osseointegration process. The literature shows that the morphology, thickness, crystallinity, chemical composition, mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of coatings, as well as their bioactivity, strongly depend on the parameters of electrochemical processes (voltage, duration, composition and temperature of the electrolyte). The purpose of this study is to review, summarize, and analyze the latest accomplishments and trends in the development of coatings used in implantology, produced with the use of electrochemical oxidation and micro arc oxidation. Recent progress and future challenges associated with the surface modification of titanium and its alloy for biomedical applications have been discussed.