Reduction in nickel content of the surface oxide layer on Ni-Ti alloy by electrolytic treatment

Purpose Ni-Ti alloy has been increasingly applied to dental and medical devices, however, it contains nickel, which is known have adverse effects on the human body. The purpose of this study was form a nickel-free surface oxide layer by electrolytic treatment for better biocompatibility. Methods Ni-49.15Ti (mol%) used, performed in electrolytes under 50 V 30 minutes. were composed lactic acid, water, glycerol with different compositions. Surface analysis characterization carried out means X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) Auger electron (AES). Results indicated that outmost when using an electrolyte comprising 7.1% 57.2% 35.7% volume. composition determined as TiO1.92(OH)1.35 ? 0.43H2O XPS, similar unalloyed titanium. thickness estimated at 6.4 nm AES. Conclusion produced considered improve biocompatibility devices having shape memory effect and/or super-elasticity.