Surface characterization of titanium implants

The initial biocompatability of titanium (Ti) implants is associated with surface and not bulk properties; hence surface characterization of these implants is critical for their clinical success. A goal of this study was to characterize the Ti (ASTM F67) samples after conducting three different surface treatments. In this article, the results of x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy performed on surface‐modified Ti samples, and also samples immersed in alpha‐modification of Eagle’s medium and in phosphate buffered saline solution after different surface treatments, are presented. Surface analysis prior to immersion revealed an amorphous oxide layer on all the samples similar in composition to TiO₂. No significant difference in oxide thicknesses was observed. After exposure to the two media an amorphous or finely crystalline Ca–P layer was exhibited on all Ti surfaces, having a chemistry similar to brushite.