Surface Finishing and Shape Effects on Corrosion Resistance of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy in the Simulated Body Fluid

Abstract

Pure titanium and various alloys, such as Ti-6Al-4V, are widely used as biomaterials. In this application, surface finish conditions, topography, and surface reactivity determine excellent cellular adhesion and osseointegration characteristics. The study evaluated the influence of four surface finishing treatments (sanding #120, 600, 1200, and polished with 3 µm alumina paste) and three shapes (concave, convex, and flat) on the corrosion resistance of Ti-6Al-4V at 37 °C in simulated body fluid (SBF) through potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The SBF's ionic composition allowed the formation of a stable passive layer with a low presence of pores on the surface. In addition, the combination of polished surface and convex shape showed the best electrochemical passive behavior.