Formation of a nano-pattering NiTi surface with Ni-depleted superficial layer to promote corrosion resistance and endothelial cell-material interaction

Zirconium ion implantation was performed on NiTi alloy to suppress Ni ion release as well as to improve corrosion resistance and cell-material interaction. A thicker Ni-depleted nano-scale composite layer formed after Zr implantation and the corrosion resistance was evidently increased in aspects of increased E _br - E _corr (difference between corrosion potential and breakdown potential) and decreased corrosion current density. 2.5/2 NiTi sample possessed the highest E _br - E _corr, more than 500 mV higher than that of untreated NiTi, suggesting a significant improvement on pitting corrosion resistance. Ni ion release rate of Zr-NiTi was decreased due to the depletion of Ni in the superficial surface layer and the diffusion resistance effect of the ZrO₂/TiO₂ nano-film. Increased surface wettability induced by increased surface roughness was obtained after Zr implantation. Zr-NiTi samples were found to be favorable to endothelial cells (ECs) proliferation, especially after 5 and 7 days culture.