Nanoscience and biomaterial corrosion control

BOBBY KANNAN, James Cook University, Australia and V. S. SAJI, Korea University, South Korea 

Abstract There is enormous interest in nanostructuied biomaterials as they can stimulate tissue-biomaterial interaction more effectively. Research is focused on developing advanced nanostructured biomaterials. The major strategies include fabrication of nanocomposites, surface nanostructuring and nanostructured coatings. A potential issue of concern in terms of biocompatibility is the corrosion resistance of the modified biomaterials. 

This chapter presents the current trends in this area with emphasis on load-bearing orthopaedic and dental implants. A detailed account on the general and the localized corrosion of conventional metalhc implants is provided. Novel fabrication strategies of nanostructured hydroxyapatite-based coatings and their roles as barrier coatings are presented. Impacts of nanoscale surface modifications on the corrosion resistance of permanent implants and novel bioresorbable implants based on magnesium alloys are highhghted. 

Key words nanocomposites, surface nanostructuring, nanostructured coatings, biocompatibility, orthopaedic and dental implants, bioresorbable. 

Corrosion resistance is one of the most basic criteria in selecting metalhc rrraterials for use in sttrgtcal implant apphcatiorrs. In general, titarrirrm and its alloys are irttmtme to film breakdown under physiological corrditions, whereas 

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