Electropolishing (EP) is one of the most important surface treatment processes used for surface finishing of metallic biomaterials. A modified surface technology, including electropolishing with the use of an externally applied magnetic field (MEP), has been proposed to improve several surface characteristics of metallic biomaterials after treatment.

Metallic implants, stents, filters, and sutures have many surface features that must be corrosion resistant, as well as haemo- and biocompatible. Chloride ions have been proven to be aggressive and responsive for the pitting and crevice corrosion of various metals in aqueous environments. Degradation follows immediately after these reactions. In attempt to refine and improve these critical features, a new process has been developed which is the magnetoelectropolishing (MEP).

In our investigations, the following metallic biomaterials used in medicine for implants and stents have been studied: (1) metals such as tantalum and titanium (Grade 2), (2) alloys such as stainless steels AISI 316L and 304L, Co-Cr-W alloy, and (3) intermetallic compounds, such as Nitinol™. Both electrochemical investigation methods (OCP, PC, and EIS determination) and surface analysis methods (static CAM, surface roughness measurements, AFM, SEM, Auger electron spectroscopy AES, and XPS studies) were carried out to present new achievements in biomaterials surface treatment.

The main findings are improvement of the biomaterials surface properties concerning chemical composition, morphology and thickness of the oxide film obtained, hydrophilicity, decreased surface microroughness, and improved corrosion resistance, minimization of external surface soiling and improved cleanability. By means of an external magnetic field, with the MEP process we could e.g. decrease the content of iron in the surface film of 316L SS below the level of chromium content and reveal quite new, more advantageous stainless steel surface properties.

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