Composition and processing effects on the electrochemical characteristics of biomedical titanium alloys

The electrochemical behaviour of the Ti-13Nb-13Zr and Ti-6Al-4V ELI alloys with martensitic microstructures was investigated by polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in Ringer's solution. The impedance spectra were interpreted by a two time-constants equivalent circuit. Both investigated alloys showed high corrosion resistance, but the thin and uniform passive film on the Ti-6Al-4V ELI alloy surface was more protective. The inner barrier and outer porous layer were highly resistant and capacitive. However, thicker and more porous passive film on the Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy surface may be beneficial for osteointegration. The suitable thermomechanical processing improved the corrosion resistance of Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy. (c) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.