MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING SEMINAR Surface Modification of Nitinol Medical and Dental Implants for Improved Biocompatibility and Corrosion Resistance By: Emily K. Walker Ph.D. Prelim Exam - Part I Advisor: Prof. J. P. Allain ABSTRACT The use of metal alloys in dental, orthopedic, and vascular implants is ubiquitous. Metals have many advantages over ceramics and polymers in terms of mechanical properties, however corrosion is a persistent problem. Nickel-titanium alloys, which go by the trade name of Nitinol, are of particular interest in the medical and orthodontic fields due to their unique mechanical properties, good biocompatibility, and good corrosion resistance. Ion leaching is a major concern with any metallic implant, however, and nickel in particular is especially harmful to cell metabolism. In addition, Nitinol is also susceptible to localized corrosion, such as pitting. In order to prevent nickel leaching and localized corrosion of Nitinol implants, many surface modifications have been explored. Chemical modification, ion implantation, coating deposition, and electropolishing have all been explored with varying degrees of success. The results in the literature from these studies are somewhat inconsistent, so a reliable technique for improving the implant surface without affecting its mechanical properties is desired. Date: Thursday, June 6, 2013 Time: 9:00 A.M. Place: ARMS 3115 Lisa Stacey Secretary/Development Assistant Purdue University School of Materials Engineering 765/494-4100