Biologisierte Titanwerkstoffe Werkstoffwissenschaft im Grenzbereich zwischen belebter und unbelebter Materie

Taking into account recent considerations about the interactins between surfaces of medical implants and surrounding tissues, new concepts for the improvement of titanium implants are put forward. An electrochemical process which forms a composite between titanium-surfaces (or medically relevant titanium alloys) and the main componts of bone tissue, collagen I and hydroxapatite, is introduced. This process takes place under nearly physiological conditions as temperature and pH are concerned, consequently allowing the incorporation of further proteins to optimise the biocompatibility of the implant surface. Latest results basing on this technological approach are discussed.