Electropolishing and Anodization of Titanium and Its Alloys

Anodic oxidation processes are widely used to treat various types of implants. The choice of process depends on the function the implant will perform in the body and its duration of use. This applies to some implants, such as stents, plates, wires, intramedullary nails, and screws; their surface should be as smooth as possible, and their properties should help limit corrosion processes. In such a case, the process of electrochemical polishing and/or anodic oxidation (anodization) is used. This chapter will present the physicochemical basics of electropolishing and anodizing. The influence of electrochemical process conditions on the quality and surface properties of processed elements made of titanium and its alloys will be discussed. Anodization will be discussed in terms of obtaining colored oxide layers as well as nanoporous oxide. Aspects of the preparation of implant surfaces before electrochemical processes and environmental safety issues will be raised.