Surface preparation techniques for biomedical applications

Surface preparation plays an essential role in the adhesion and durability of subsequent biomedical coatings. There are a variety of techniques available for preparing biomaterial surfaces ranging from polishing and etching to priming and plasma treatment. Often the effectiveness and efficiency are greatly enhanced when several of the techniques are combined. This chapter discusses six widely used surface preparation techniques in the context of their reported use in conjunction with biomedical coatings. These techniques are sonication, mechanical polishing, electropolishing, chemical etching, plasma treatment and priming. The key characteristics and applications of each technique are illustrated with examples. Also commented upon are new developments and innovative applications, e.g. the creation of dimpled tantalum surfaces by electropolishing.