Characterization of Ti6Al4V implant surface treated by Nd:YAG laser and emery paper for orthopaedic applications

A more noble and biocompatible Ti alloy was achieved at fluence of 140 J cm−2 where the implant indicated a higher degree of hardness (825HV), higher corrosion resistance (−0.21 V) and highest hydrophilicity (i.e. θc = 37°) compared with 70° of the control sample. These values corresponded to 58 and 39 mN m−1 of surface tension respectively. The laser treated samples at 140 J cm−2 showed higher wettability characteristics than mechanically roughened surface. Cell growth and their spreading condition in a specific area were analyzed by SEM and Image J Program software. Clearly, more cells were attached (1.2 × 105) to and spread (488 μm2) over the surface at 140 J cm−2 than in any other condition. Pathologically, the treated samples indicated no sign of infection.